Work incentives in the SSI program

Before 1980, when a disabled person's counted income exceeded the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level, his Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits were ended. This caused the loss of Medicaid benefits too in many States. Critics argued that the low SGA amount created a disincentive to work. nThe Social Security Disability Amendments of 1980, P.L. 96-265, allowed disabled SSI recipients who worked and earned more than the SGA amount to receive a special SSI benefit and thereby remain eligible for Medicaid. The 1980 amendments included a number of provisions designed to encourage disabled recipients to attempt to return to work. This paper analyzes the current rules on work-related earnings and also examines past policies.,CRS 84-825 EPW,"November 26, 1984.",SuDoc# LC 14. 18/3