Do I Have a Right to View My Countable Income Test?

The Countable Income Test (CIT) forms part of the Social Security Agency’s (SSA) continuing disability review (CDR) process. It is one means the SSA has of determining both your initial and ongoing eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). CIT is particularly common for those qualifying under title II disability benefits. Specifically, it is the government’s means of measuring a disabled individual’s income to see if it reaches or extends beyond a certain level. This level is called substantial gain activity (SGA).

The importance of the CIT/SGA equation is simple. If, by using the CIT, the claims representative (CR) determines your SGA is greater than the designated amount, you will be denied SSDI benefits. If already on SSDI, your benefits will cease. In 2005, SSDI benefits ended for 7.3% when their earnings exceeded the predetermined amount.

Determining You Countable Income

The SSA will use the CIT to determine your SGA and, therefore your extended period of eligibility (EPE) for SSDI under the following circumstances:

• You must have been a recipient of SSDI for a minimum of 24 months
• You derive your income – if any, from self-employment

The SSA rule in regards to formulating the exact amount earned by an individual is complex. The guidelines to determine the amount an individual has earned involve deriving your net income from subtracting specific costs from your gross income. These include the unpaid wages derived from the help of family – children and spouse. Also deducted are any impairment-related work expenses (IRWE) as well as special conditions and any specific subsidies.

Monetary Amounts

The SSA changes the SGA amount annually. It alters in accordance with the latest national wage figures and the cost of living (COLA). In 2009, for example the figure was $980. This increased to $1,000 in 2009. This applies only to those who are not blind.

The monetary amounts allowed those affected with blindness differ from other categories. In 2009, the SGA allowed blind recipients of SSDI was $1,640. It remained unchanged in 2010. This is the result of not taking into consideration the COLA.

Eligibility Period Extension Denied

If the CIT determines your SGA is higher than the acceptable guidelines, SSA will revoke your eligibility. You can appeal this decision. You must do so within the required time. You can ask for papers relating to your case, including the CIT. The SSA may argue you already have the specific documents and figures. If you are in doubt as to your rights, and are considering an appeal, talk to a qualified SSDI attorney. He or she can improve your chances of seeing such things as your CIT and related documents.