Can You Work While Receiving SSDI?
Living with a disability does not always mean you have to give up working. If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may be able to return to work while keeping your benefits for a time. However, Social Security (SS) has specific rules that govern how work affects your payments. Understanding the trial work period, earnings limits and other work incentives can help you make informed choices about returning to work.
How Working Can Affect SSDI Benefits
Going back to work does not mean your SSDI payments will stop right away. Social Security uses different rules to assess your work activity at each stage. One key measure is substantial gainful activity (SGA), which refers to work and earnings above a set monthly level.
Some costs related to your disability, such as equipment you need to do your job, may reduce the earnings SS counts. The agency may also account for extra support your employer provides because of your disability. Be sure to report your work activity and related expenses.
What Is The Trial Work Period For SSDI?
The trial work period lets you test your ability to work while still receiving your full SSDI benefits, as long as you report your work and continue to meet SSD rules. You must complete nine qualifying months within a rolling 60-month period. These months do not need to be consecutive.
In 2026, a month generally counts toward this period if you earn more than $1,210 before taxes. If you are self-employed, working more than 80 hours in a month can also count.
What Happens After The Trial Work Period?
After your trial work period ends, you enter a 36-month extended period of eligibility. During this time, SS reviews your earnings each month to decide whether you qualify for a payment.
In 2026, the monthly SGA limit is $1,690 for most people and $2,830 for people who qualify under the rules for statutory blindness. You can generally receive benefits for months when your countable earnings fall below the limit and you still meet the disability rules.
When your earnings first reach or exceed the SGA limit during this period, SS applies a three-month grace period. You receive full benefits for that month and the next two consecutive months, even if your earnings remain above the limit. After the grace period, your earnings may affect your monthly payments.
Can You Lose SSDI Benefits By Returning to Work?
Yes. If you continue earning above the SGA limit after the extended period of eligibility ends, your benefits will generally stop. However, you may be able to get them back without filing a new application if your benefits ended because of work and your disability prevents you from continuing to earn above the limit.
This option, called expedited reinstatement, may apply within five years of your benefits ending if you meet SS requirements.
Get Help Understanding How Work May Affect Your SSDI
If you are thinking about returning to work or are worried about losing your benefits, contact our office in Schenectady, New York, for legal guidance. Call us at 518-631-4521 or send us an email to discuss your concerns and learn about the rules that may apply to your situation.