When does an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) start?

The Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) commences at the conclusion of the Trial Work Period (TWP). During the TWP, individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can test their ability to work without losing their benefits, and this period lasts for nine months. Once this period ends, the EPE begins and allows beneficiaries to retain their benefits for an additional 36 months while they work and earn income, as long as they do not perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).

The EPE is a critical component in providing support to individuals transitioning back to work, as it offers a safety net while they are starting to earn and may be uncertain about their ability to sustain that employment. The EPE is particularly beneficial because it allows beneficiaries to evaluate their work capacity while still receiving necessary assistance, reinforcing the goal of encouraging self-sufficiency without the risk of losing benefits.

Other options provide different timelines or contexts that do not accurately reflect when the EPE begins. For example, the waiting period or the beginning of employment do not align with the specific structure established by Social Security's rules, which clearly state that the EPE starts after the TWP concludes.