You are rightfully concerned, and I've read about the back-to-work timeframe they give people (ETA: the ticket to work thing, which people are discussing on here), but I'd be too distrusting of that, too. Can you talk to your case manager about absolute specifics about amount of time you can work without triggering anything? I mean, if you're in housing, your rent goes up, and it is awful. I understand and am very sorry the system is like this. You should get advised by a case manager before making any decisions besides volunteering, is my advice.