Q. If I’m approved for FERS disability retirement and I’m also accepted for Social Security Disability Insurance, would I be able to work part-time in the civilian work force, or is there no working allowed at all?
A. According to OPM, “Earning capacity is considered restored if, in any calendar year, the annuitant’s income from wages or self-employment or both equals at least 80 percent of the current rate of pay for the position occupied immediately prior to retirement.” If you exceed that amount, your FERS disability annuity would stop. The rules are much stricter for Social Security Disability Insurance. To continue receiving SSDI benefits, you cannot engage in any substantial gainful activity.
