Actually, the accurate information is you can first work for 9 months earning as much as you possibly can and still receive your full SSDI.  This 9 months does not have to be consecutive either.  Once the 9 months are gone then you go into a period that lasts for 36 months.  You can earn up to a certain amount and still keep your SSDI.  It may well be $1130.  It used to be $1070.  It has gone up with inflation, but social security retirement has not. Honestly I'm not sure what happens after the three years are up.  I have worked off and on when able.  I'm approaching the end of my 36 months and I guess I will not get anything.  I'm 64.7 and will start collecting SS retirement at 66.

Applying for SSDI is a daunting task.  Most people do not get approved immediately. Some people have to hire an attorney and pay a percentage of the amount they receive in a lump sum.  I was approved within 2 months of filing.