Social Security disability recipients often wonder whether they can work without losing their eligibility for benefits. The answer depends on the type of disability benefits the recipient receives and the income they earn.
You generally can work while receiving Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, but your income and assets must remain below a very low threshold to qualify. Meanwhile, Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, or SSDI, are typically only available to those who cannot work full-time, but the Social Security Administration offers incentives that can allow you to resume working while still receiving them.
Understanding Work and Disability Benefits
SSDI provides benefits to those with an established work history who can no longer perform a full-time job because of a significant qualifying disability. To qualify, you must be unable to perform substantial gainful activity, or SGA, the Social Security Administration’s benchmark for meaningful employment. In 2025, the SSA deems any monthly income above $2,700 for blind people and $1,620 for those with other disabilities to be substantial gainful activity.
SSI is a needs-based program that provides financial support to those with limited income and resources. To qualify, you must also have a qualifying disability or be 65 or older.
SSDI Specifics
You can begin a Trial Work Period, or TWP, and continue receiving SSDI benefits while building up your ability to reenter the workforce. Over a 60-month period, you can record up to nine individual months of activity where you earn at least $1,160 before taxes or perform more than 80 hours of self-employed work.
Once you’ve finished your trial work period, you can also enter an Extended Period of Eligibility, or EPE, that provides a cushion to either transition you off SSDI benefits or restart them with minimal hassle. During your EPE, you will receive SSDI benefits for every month your income is under the SGA threshold, up to 36 months.
If your monthly earnings exceed the SGA threshold at any point while receiving benefits, you will no longer be considered disabled and lose your SSDI eligibility. However, exceeding the threshold during your EPE allows you to still receive benefits for that month and the next two after as you transition off of disability.
SSI Specifics
SSI is available to those who make less than $2,020 monthly and have less than $2,000 in cash or assets. For couples, the threshold increases to about $3,000. In 2025, the program provides up to $967 monthly for qualifying individuals and $1,450 for eligible couples.
However, the higher your earned income, the less you’ll be able to receive. The SSA will reduce your benefits by about $1 for every $2 you make at work and every $1 in other income, including disability payments, unemployment benefits, or retirement plans. Some types of assistance, including food stamps, may be exempt from the income and asset limits.
If your income increases while receiving SSI, it’s important to report the change to the SSA quickly to avoid overpayment penalties or other repercussions.
Work Incentives and Support Programs
The SSA offers work incentives beyond the TWP. Among them is the Ticket to Work program, which provides free services and support to people on SSDI or SSI who want to reenter or remain in the workforce.
Other incentives include the Plan to Achieve Self-Support, or PASS, a program that allows you to exempt some income from SSDI and SSI for use toward a work goal. You can also deduct certain impairment-related work expenses for services or items you need to do your job.
Reporting Work Activity
Reporting any changes in income to the SSA immediately is key for avoiding any headaches involving benefit overpayments. When you receive more benefits than you should, the administration will require you to pay it back, pursue an appeal, or seek a waiver.
The SSA requires recipients to report changes in income, resources, or other qualifying factors within 10 days after the end of the month. You can report income changes online, by calling 800-722-1213, or through a local SSA office.
Risks and Considerations
Working while on Social Security disability benefits can be complicated and risky. Making too much income can lead to overpayments or even fully losing your eligibility for benefits. Consult a knowledgeable Social Security disability lawyer before changing your work status while receiving benefits.
Working While on Social Security? Get the Guidance You Need
If you need help securing or maintaining the benefits you need while still working, turn to the experienced team at the National Disability Alliance. Our skilled disability benefits attorneys can help you understand the Social Security work rules and carefully navigate the system without losing eligibility.
If you encounter overpayment or eligibility issues, we can help you comply with reporting requirements and appeal any decisions that prevent you from receiving the benefits you deserve. Contact us online or call 833-693-4722 to learn more.
