Can I work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits?

Working while on SSDI is allowed, but the rules are specific and the stakes are high. Here is what you need to know before you accept any paycheck.

Below SGA ($1,620/month in 2026): You can work indefinitely and keep your full SSDI benefit as long as your gross wages do not exceed the SGA limit. Part-time work at this level will not trigger a review of your disability status.

Trial Work Period (TWP): SSA gives every SSDI recipient a 9-month Trial Work Period. During those 9 months — which do not have to be consecutive — you can earn any amount without affecting your benefits. A month counts as a TWP month if you earn over $1,110 (2026 threshold). Once you use all 9 TWP months within a 60-month rolling window, SSA reviews your earnings against SGA.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After your TWP ends, you have a 36-month EPE window. During the EPE, SSA will pay or withhold your benefit each month based on whether you earned above or below SGA that month.

Ticket to Work: SSA’s voluntary Ticket to Work program lets you try working without triggering a CDR. Ask us if this fits your situation.

Report all work activity to SSA in writing. Failing to report earnings is one of the most common causes of overpayments — and SSA will demand that money back. Our office can help you report correctly and protect your benefits.