Here's a little ditty for your reading pleasure...brought to you by the good
folks at the Associated Press.

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Social Security To Help Disabled

.c The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) - Some disabled workers and low-income students will get
increased benefits under new Social Security Administration rules that take
effect Monday.

The earnings limit for Social Security disability beneficiaries will be
adjusted annually based on increases in the national average wage index. The
current limit of $700 per month that a beneficiary can earn and still receive
benefits will increase to $740 a month.

Another rule change should allow disability beneficiaries to remain eligible
longer in Social Security's work incentive program.

The program allows disability beneficiaries to earn full benefits while
testing their ability to work for nine months. Earnings of $200 a month now
count as a trial work month. But that will increase to $530 a month. Annual
increases are permitted.

Also, new changes will expand supplemental security income eligibility for
low-income students under age 22 who work.

Now, $1,620 a year or $400 a month is not counted in determining eligibility.
The income exclusion will increase to $1,290 monthly and $5,200 yearly.

AP-NY-12-29-00 1959EST

Copyright 2000 The Associated Press.