Can You Work While Receiving SSDI? Understanding SGA and Your Options

Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to know if you can work while still receiving benefits. The great news is that there are ways to combine work and SSDI, as long as you understand the rules and guidelines. This post will clarify the rules about Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and help you explore your options as an SSDI beneficiary.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial support to individuals who can no longer work due to disabling conditions. To qualify, you must prove that your disability greatly limits your ability to perform everyday work.

In 2022, around 8.9 million beneficiaries relied on SSDI for monthly income. For many, SSDI represents a crucial lifeline, offering the financial stability needed to manage regular expenses and navigate life with a disability.

Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is pivotal in the SSDI program. It defines the level of work that the Social Security Administration (SSA) sees as significant. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.

If you earn above these limits, your SSDI benefits may be affected, but if you earn less, you can continue to receive benefits while working. To put this in perspective, if you earn $1,300 per month while receiving SSDI, you are still below the SGA threshold and can hold your benefits.

The Work Incentives Available

There are several work incentives designed to help SSDI recipients return to work without the fear of losing their benefits. Important incentives include:

1. Trial Work Period (TWP): You can work for up to nine months without losing SSDI benefits. During this time, you can earn any amount, such as $2,000 one month and $4,000 the next. Your benefits remain intact as you test your ability to work.

   
   

2. Expanded Trial Work Period (ETWP): After the TWP, you have an additional 36 months during which you can earn above the SGA limits and still receive benefits, as long as you stay under the threshold.

   
   

3. Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): This option allows you to deduct certain work-related expenses from your earnings. For example, if you have to pay $100 a week for transportation due to your disability, that cost can be subtracted from your monthly income before assessing SGA.

   
   

Rules Surrounding the Combination of Work and SSDI

If you're an SSDI beneficiary, it's crucial to adhere to the SSA rules while working. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Income Limits: Stay mindful of the SGA limits so your monthly earnings do not exceed what is allowed for your situation. Maintain a regular check on your income to avoid going over.

  
  

• Report Work Activity: You are required to report your work activity to the SSA. This includes starting and stopping dates, hours worked, and your earnings to keep everything transparent.

  
  

• Disability Status: If your disability significantly improves and you can work, this may affect your SSDI eligibility. The SSA may reevaluate your case, and you must be aware that your benefits could change.

  
  

Finding the Right Balance

Returning to work while receiving SSDI benefits is both challenging and rewarding. It can bring a sense of purpose and enhance your overall wellness. However, finding the right balance requires knowledge and careful planning.

Consider consulting with us for personalized guidance. We can help you navigate the process and ensure you are following all necessary protocols.

Strategies for Success

If you're contemplating work while on SSDI, here are effective strategies to keep in mind:

• Start Part-Time: Easing into a part-time role is a good way to adjust to the routine without feeling overwhelmed.

  
  

• Maintain Detailed Records: Keeping organized records of your earnings, expenses, and communications with the SSA can clarify your status and support your claims if needed.

  
  

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the SSDI and SGA rules. Knowledge empowers you to make informed employment choices that do not jeopardize your benefits.

  
  

• Utilize Available Resources: Use resources from organizations that help individuals with disabilities. They may offer job training, placement services, or legal support to assist your transition back to work.

  
  

Get Help Navigating SSDI and Work Rules

Balancing work and Social Security Disability Insurance benefits can feel complicated, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you have questions about how working might affect your benefits, or you’d like help understanding your options, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today — we’re ready to answer your questions and help you make confident decisions about your SSDI and work plans.