An individual who is receiving disability
benefits may find that certain conditions – such as improved health, better management or treatment for a disabling
condition, and introduction of new work-place technologies – make it possible to consider a return to work. A return
to work may result from a conscious choice and a structured employment arrangement, or, as is commonly the case, may slip
in through the back door: volunteering services to a church, school, or other
charitable or educational institution; helping out a prior employer in a crunch
by providing as-needed services on a part-time or from-the-home basis; or participating in educational or training programs
that open up occupational opportunities that are new and less-demanding than one’s former employment. Over time, these activities may evolve – with or without specific planning – into work of a
more regular and recurrent nature.
Whether purposeful or not, a return to work can have a significant
impact on disability-related benefits. Any individual receiving such benefits
would do well to become familiar with the potential ramifications of return-to-work activities and to take great care –
seeking legal advice if necessary – before engaging in such activities. The
following links discuss some of the potential ramifications:
