I receive ssdi for major depression. I haven't worked for 6 years. In September, after talking to ss, I accepted a 12 hour a week job ($10 per hour) in an elementary school cafeteria to help kids open cartons of milk and other foods, clean up their messes, and try to keep order. I have a supervisor and work with the supervisor and 1 other person. So far, I have not made more than $400 a month.

When I spoke with ss, I was told that if I did not make over $750 (possibly the lady said $720) per month, it was not considered substantial and it would not generate an early continuing disability review. I did have to file a report with ss to tell them that I wpuld be working very part time.

I did this without my pdoc's approval although he did indicate that he was pleased that I had taken this initiative and it could be beneficial.

Here's the problem: I am terrified of losing my ssdi benefits and I read whatever I find on this subject. I stumbled on NeuroTalk and looked at their finances forum. The commentators mention repeatedly that they are or know of individuals receiving ssdi who have been disqualified because the work at all, most like me for a few hundred dollars a month.

My questions are:
Have I made a case for ss to review my file and take away my ssdi benefits for even limited working?
If so, should I resign immediately, which would actually be a relief in a way because when I leave the job, my legs ache to the point that I moan when getting into and out of the car. The pain continues all evening and severely limits what I can do at home. I have to take large doses of ibuprofin to get out of bed and dressed.

To be honest, this small job has helped me im several ways: I have a reason that I must get out of bed no matter what, I love being around the kids, as they can prpvide a respite from the constant mental pain, and it provides a tiny bit of exercise.

Once again to the issue: does anyone have experience with ss terminating a recipient for a job that does not meet the SGE number?

By way of background, I am in my late 50's and was working as an attorney in the legislative branch of my state's government, but now I cannot even remember the name of a child I talked to at the beginning of the lunch hour.

I am so terrified. Ssdi is all I have.