Deducting Impairment-Related Work Expenses

It is important for disabled entrepreneurs who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to understand how deducting impairment-related work expenses can affect SSDI calculations. These deductible expenses may reduce your countable earnings, helping you maintain eligibility for SSDI benefits while continuing to work.

If you need help with this process, call BurnettDriskill today for a free consultation. Our team can help you determine if your expenses are eligible for deduction, and our attorneys can represent you in your claim.

What Are Impairment-Related Work Expenses?

Impairment-related business expenses are costs you pay out of pocket to accommodate your disability in order to work. This can include items or services necessary for your job due to your impairment. Examples include specialized equipment, transportation costs related to your disability, or personal assistance services. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sometimes allows you to deduct these expenses from your earnings when determining if you qualify for SSDI.

The SSA counts your net earnings from self-employment, which is your gross income minus business expenses. If you can show that certain costs are directly related to your impairment, the SSA will exclude those from your earnings. This can help you meet the work activity limits imposed by SSDI without harming your claim.

How To Establish Your Impairment-Related Work Expenses

To deduct these expenses, you need to provide the SSA with clear evidence that the costs are necessary and related to your disability. This includes receipts, invoices, and detailed explanations of why the expense enables you to work. Documentation from medical providers or vocational rehabilitation professionals can strengthen your claim. You must also show that the expense is reasonable and directly tied to your impairment.

Keep thorough records of all impairment-related expenses. When the SSA reviews your claim, organized and clear documentation of disability-related expenses will help ensure that these deductions are properly considered.

Impact on SSDI Calculations

Deducting impairment-related costs lowers your countable earnings. This is crucial because SSDI has strict limits on how much you can earn while still qualifying for benefits.

If you face challenges navigating the SSA’s rules on impairment-related work expenses, an experienced attorney can represent you in your claim. They can help gather evidence, communicate with the SSA, and object to consultative examinations when appropriate.

Call Us Today To Help Protect Your Business With Eligible Disability-Related Deductions

Deducting impairment-related work expenses can help you in your claim for SSDI benefits. Keep detailed records and provide the SSA with clear evidence of these costs. Contact BurnettDriskill to discuss your claim and learn how we can represent you through the process.