Working While on SSDI or SSI: How to Earn Without Losing Benefits
Receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides crucial financial support to individuals who cannot work due to a disability. However, many beneficiaries wonder: Can you work while receiving SSDI or SSI? The short answer is yes, but there are strict rules to follow. Understanding work incentives, the Trial Work Period (TWP), and income limits can help you make informed decisions without jeopardizing your benefits.
Understanding Work Incentives for SSDI and SSI
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides work incentives to encourage individuals receiving disability benefits to return to work if they are able. These incentives allow beneficiaries to test their ability to work while still receiving benefits.
SSDI Work Incentives
If you receive SSDI, you are eligible for specific work incentives, including:
- Trial Work Period (TWP) – The TWP allows you to work for up to nine months within a 60-month period while still receiving full SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you earn. In 2025, a month counts as part of your TWP if you earn more than $1,110.
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) – After completing the TWP, you enter a 36-month period where you can still receive benefits for any month your earnings are below Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits. The SGA limit in 2025 is $1,550 per month (or $2,590 for blind individuals).
- Expedited Reinstatement – If your benefits stop due to earnings but you later become unable to work again, you can request benefits be reinstated without a new application within five years.
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) – The SSA deducts certain disability-related work expenses (such as medical devices or transportation) from your earnings, potentially allowing you to stay below the SGA limit.
SSI Work Incentives
For SSI recipients, the rules are different because SSI is a needs-based program. Instead of a Trial Work Period, the SSA applies an income exclusion formula:
- The first $20 of any income is excluded.
- The first $65 of earned income is also excluded.
- After that, SSA reduces benefits by $1 for every $2 earned.
- In 2025, the resource limit for SSI increased to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples, providing more financial security.
Ticket to Work Program
The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary program designed to help SSDI and SSI beneficiaries receive vocational rehabilitation, training, job referrals, and other employment support while keeping benefits during the transition period.
These limits change annually, so staying updated is essential. Green and Greenberg monitors these updates closely to ensure our clients receive accurate guidance.
How Green and Greenberg Can Help
Navigating SSDI and SSI work rules can be complex, but Green and Greenberg is here to help. We provide expert legal assistance to ensure:
- You maximize your benefits while working.
- You understand your rights and options under SSA’s work incentives.
- You avoid costly mistakes that could result in benefit loss.
Final Thoughts: Work Without Worry
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI—but understanding the rules is crucial. Green and Greenberg has helped countless clients safely navigate working while on disability, ensuring financial stability and compliance with SSA regulations.
If you’re considering working while receiving SSDI or SSI, contact Green and Greenberg today for a free consultation and personalized advice.