Living with a disability doesn’t mean giving up your career or your goals. Many individuals receiving disability benefits wonder, “Can I work a part-time job without losing my benefits?” The short answer is: yes, you can—but there are important rules and limits you need to know.
In this article, we’ll break down how working part-time affects your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), what income limits apply, and how to work within the system to maintain your benefits while earning extra income.
Understanding Disability Benefits: SSDI vs. SSI
Before exploring work options, it’s essential to understand which disability benefit you’re receiving, as the rules vary between SSDI and SSI.
What is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. It’s based on your work history and the amount you’ve contributed to the system.
What is SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. It’s intended to help those with disabilities meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
Can You Work Part-Time on SSDI?
Yes, you can—but there are limits.
The Trial Work Period (TWP)
The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work without immediately losing benefits through a Trial Work Period. During this phase:
- You can work and earn any amount for up to 9 months in a 60-month window.
- In 2025, any month you earn over $1,110 counts as a TWP month.
- Your benefits continue during this period, regardless of how much you earn.
What Happens After the Trial Work Period?
After the TWP, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):
- Lasts for 36 months.
- You can still receive benefits in any month you earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit.
- In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals.
If you consistently earn above this limit, your benefits may stop, but you may still qualify for expedited reinstatement if your disability prevents you from continuing to work.
Can You Work Part-Time on SSI?
Yes, but your benefits will be reduced based on how much you earn.
How Income Affects SSI Payments
SSI is needs-based, so your earnings directly impact your monthly benefit. However, not all of your income is counted:
- The first $20 of any income and $65 of earned income are excluded.
- After that, half of your remaining earnings are counted.
Example:
If you earn $500/month:
- $500 – $20 – $65 = $415
- $415 ÷ 2 = $207.50 countable income
Your SSI benefit would be reduced by $207.50.
Reporting Work to the SSA
Always report any work activity or income to the SSA. Failing to do so can result in overpayments, which you’ll be required to pay back.
You can report:
- Online through your mySocialSecurity account
- By phone or in person
- Through your SSI/SSDI representative payee, if you have one
Keep detailed records of your hours, wages, and job responsibilities in case the SSA requests documentation.
Benefits of Working While on Disability
Working part-time can offer more than just extra income. It can also:
- Boost your confidence
- Provide social interaction
- Help you develop new skills
- Lead to more independence
If you’re able and willing, part-time work can be a meaningful step toward a fuller, more active life.
Important Tips for Working on Disability
Here are a few key takeaways to help you stay compliant and protect your benefits:
- ✅ Know your benefit type: SSDI and SSI have different rules.
- ✅ Track your income carefully.
- ✅ Use the Trial Work Period to your advantage.
- ✅ Report all earnings promptly.
- ✅ Stay under the SGA limit, if applicable.
- ✅ Seek guidance from a disability advocate or benefits counselor if you’re unsure.
Conclusion: You Can Work While on Disability—With the Right Knowledge
If you’re asking, “Can I work a part-time job on disability?” the answer is a confident yes—but with clear boundaries. By understanding how SSDI and SSI work, keeping earnings within the allowed limits, and communicating with the SSA, you can supplement your income without jeopardizing your benefits.
Andre Cuevas provides career insights, job search strategies, and professional advice to help individuals navigate the job market and achieve their career goals.
