Trial Work Period, Employment Rules and Work Credits for Your SSDI Benefits

One of the most common questions among SSDI beneficiaries is: "Can I work while on SSDI?" The answer is yes, but with specific rules and income limits designed to encourage work while providing financial safety. In 2025, understanding these rules is essential if you want to maintain your benefits while earning additional income.

This guide will explain:

• The income thresholds you need to stay within.
• Work testing rules like the Trial Work Period (TWP).
• The consequences of earning too much or working too long.
• Tips for safely working while on SSDI.

We have also answered what happens if your work exceeds limits or if you want to return to full-time employment in this blog.

And for personalized legal guidance on your SSDI and work rights, you can always consult our expert disability attorneys at the Law Office of Irene Ruzin.

The short answer is YES—but with restrictions. The key is to ensure your earnings and hours don't make the SSA consider you engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which can result in losing your benefits.

The SSA sets a monthly earnings limit that determines whether your work qualifies as "substantial gainful activity." For 2025:

• Non-blind SSDI recipients: earning more than $1,550/month.
• Blind SSDI recipients: earning more than $2,590/month.

Earning above these thresholds indicates you can perform substantial work, potentially leading to benefits termination.

One of the most beneficial rules for SSDI beneficiaries is the Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work without losing benefits.

• Length: In 2025, you can work for up to 9 months within a rolling 60-month period.
• Earnings needed: During TWP months, earning $1,050/month qualifies as a "work month".
• Benefit: During the TWP, you can earn any amount without impact on your SSDI benefits.

After the TWP, your work is subject to the Extended Period of Eligibility, during which your benefits are paid for any month your earnings fall below the SGA limit.

• Continuing Medicare: You keep your Medicare coverage for at least 8.5 years after starting work, provided you meet certain requirements.
• Ticket to Work: A free employment support program offering training, job counseling, and job placement.

If your earnings exceed the SGA threshold in a given month after the TWP:

• Your SSDI benefits may stop for that month.
• You must report your income to avoid overpayment penalties.
• You can use Work Incentives such as demonstration projects and waivers to continue receiving benefits in some cases.

• Keep precise records: Save pay stubs, tracking earnings monthly.
• Report income promptly: Ensure SSA has accurate data to avoid overpayment issues or penalties.
• Consult your employment specialist: Many SSA offices offer vocational rehabilitation services that help plan work activities compatible with SSDI rules.
• Use Ticket to Work: This free program can connect you with employment support services tailored to your needs.

You can re-enter full employment after certain periods, but it must be properly planned to avoid losing benefits.

• If you earn above the SGA limits for a month or more, your SSDI benefits may stop temporarily.
• You may be able to reapply later or reinstated if your condition worsens.

Working while on SSDI is possible, especially with the tailored protections of the Trial Work Period and Work Incentives for 2025. The key is to stay within the income limits, accurately report your earnings, and understand the rules to avoid losing your benefits.

For more details and one-on-one guidance regarding your SSDI benefits and employment plans, contact the Law Office of Irene Ruzin. Our disability attorneys can help you maximize your rights and benefits while working.