Can you work while on SSI? Discover the 2026 work incentives like IRWE, the PASS plan, and Section 1619b that let you keep your benefits and Medicaid while earning a paycheck.
If you are ready to "test the waters" of working in 2026, here is how you can keep your benefits—and your Medicaid—while you do it.
1. The "Invisible" Paycheck (Income Exclusions)
The SSA doesn’t count every dollar you earn. In 2026, the first $85 of your monthly gross wages is completely ignored. After that, they only count half of what’s left.
- The Result: You will always have more total money in your pocket by working than by relying on SSI alone.
2. IRWE: Deducting Your Work Costs
Do you have to pay for a wheelchair, a special computer, or even taxi fare because of your disability? These are called Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE).
- The Benefit: If you pay for these out of pocket to help you work, the SSA subtracts those costs from your income before calculating your check. This keeps your SSI payment higher!
3. Section 1619b: The Medicaid Lifeline
The #1 reason people are afraid to work is losing their health insurance. Section 1619b is your protection.
- Even if your paycheck is so high that your SSI check drops to $0, you can often keep your Medicaid for free.
- In most states, you can earn up to a specific "threshold" (often $40,000–$60,000+ per year) and still keep your medical coverage.
4. The PASS Plan: Saving for a Goal
If you have a dream of starting a business or going to college, a Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) allows you to set aside income or assets for that goal. Money in a PASS plan doesn’t count toward your $2,000 asset limit, helping you build a future without being penalized.
5. Ticket to Work
The Ticket to Work program gives you access to free career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and job placement. While you are actively participating in the program and making progress toward work, the SSA will not start a "Medical Review" on your case.
Don't Forget to Report!
When you start a job, you must report your wages by the 10th day of the following month. To make sure your work income doesn't collide with an "early payment" month, check our