Many people who receive Social Security Disability benefits ask the same question: “Can I work part time without losing my benefits?” The short answer is yes, sometimes you can. But there are strict limits on how much you can earn and what type of work you can do.
In this post, we’ll explain the rules for part-time work, how the SSA measures your earnings, and what you need to watch out for so you don’t lose your benefits.
SSDI vs. SSI: Why It Matters
The rules depend on whether you’re receiving SSDI (based on work history) or SSI (based on financial need).
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SSDI: You may be able to work part time as long as your earnings stay below a set limit.
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SSI: Because SSI is based on income and resources, any earnings can reduce your monthly benefit.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit
The SSA uses a rule called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If you earn more than the SGA limit, you are considered able to work and may lose benefits.
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In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind people.
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For people who are blind, the SGA limit is higher, at $2,700 per month.
👉 If you earn less than these amounts, you may qualify for SSDI.
Trial Work Period
SSDI also includes something called a Trial Work Period (TWP). This allows you to test working again without immediately losing benefits.
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You can earn above the SGA limit for 9 months (not necessarily in a row).
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In 2025, a month counts as a trial work month if you earn over $1,110.
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After the 9 months, you enter a 36-month “extended period of eligibility.” During this time, you’ll get benefits for any month your income falls below the SGA limit.
This system gives people a safety net to try working again.
Part-Time Work While on SSI
If you receive SSI payments, the rules are different. Because SSI is based on income, any money you earn may lower your payment. However:
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The first $85 of monthly income is not counted.
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After that, SSA reduces your SSI check by 50 cents for every $1 you earn.
👉 Example: If you earn $500, SSA ignores the first $85. That leaves $415. SSA then subtracts half ($207.50) from your SSI check.
Common Mistakes People Make
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Not reporting income: Always report your earnings to SSA. If you don’t, you may get overpaid and later have to pay money back.
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Working “under the table”: This is risky. SSA may find out and deny or stop your benefits.
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Taking on too many hours: Even if your pay is low, if your job duties show you can do full-time work, SSA may question your disability.
Special Rules for Medical Needs
Some people may be able to deduct certain expenses called Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE). These are costs you need to work, such as:
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Special equipment,
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Transportation, or
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Prescription medications.
SSA may deduct these costs from your income when deciding if you’re under the SGA limit.
FAQs About Part-Time Work and Disability
Can I Work 20 Hours a Week on SSDI?
Yes, as long as your monthly earnings stay below the SGA limit.
Can I Work While Waiting for Approval?
We do not advise working near or above SGA levels. If your earnings show you can work near or above SGA, your claim will be denied as disability benefits are reserved for those claimants who truly cannot work full time.
Will Working Affect My Medicare or Medicaid?
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SSDI: You keep Medicare coverage while in your trial work period and extended eligibility period.
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SSI: You may still qualify for Medicaid even if your SSI check is reduced.
How We Help Clients at Collins Price
Understanding these rules is tough. Many people are afraid to try part-time work because they don’t want to lose benefits. At Collins Price, we:
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Explain the income limits in simple terms,
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Help you report your income correctly, and
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Protect your rights if SSA questions your claim.
Key Takeaways
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Yes, you can often work part time while on SSDI or SSI, but the rules are strict.
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SSDI uses the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025).
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SSI reduces your check based on what you earn.
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Always report income to SSA to avoid overpayment problems.
👉 If you’re unsure about your situation, contact Collins Price for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and protect your benefits as well as apply for or appeal a denied disability claim as appropriate. There is never any fee for our services unless your claim is successful and no obligation to hire us following the free consultation.
