Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) while considering part-time work requires a nuanced understanding of the rules and regulations set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The crucial question isn't whether you can work, but how much you can work and earn without jeopardizing your benefits. The SSA recognizes that some individuals receiving disability benefits may be capable of engaging in limited work activity, and they've established guidelines to accommodate this possibility. Understanding these guidelines is paramount to ensuring continued eligibility.
The core principle revolves around the concept of "Substantial Gainful Activity" (SGA). SGA is the term the SSA uses to describe a level of work activity that is considered significant and profitable. In 2024, the SGA threshold for non-blind individuals is $1,550 per month. If your earnings consistently exceed this amount, the SSA will generally determine that you are no longer disabled and your benefits may be terminated. However, earning less than the SGA threshold doesn't automatically guarantee continued benefits. The SSA will also consider the nature of your work and whether it demonstrates an ability to perform substantial gainful activity.
For individuals who are blind, the SGA threshold is higher, set at $2,590 per month in 2024. This reflects the understanding that blind individuals may face unique challenges in the workforce and require higher earnings to maintain a comparable standard of living.

Beyond SGA, there are specific programs and work incentives designed to encourage beneficiaries to explore employment opportunities without immediately losing their benefits. These incentives are crucial tools for those considering part-time work.
One of the most important is the Trial Work Period (TWP). The TWP allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work for up to nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a rolling 60-month period. During the TWP, you can earn any amount and still receive full SSDI benefits, provided you report your work activity to the SSA. A month counts as a TWP month if your earnings exceed $1,110 in 2024, or if you work more than 80 hours in self-employment. The TWP is designed to provide a safe harbor to explore work options without immediate benefit loss.
Following the TWP is the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). This 36-month period begins immediately after the TWP ends. During the EPE, you are eligible to receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA threshold. If your earnings exceed SGA in a month during the EPE, your benefits will be suspended for that month, but you can reinstate them in any subsequent month your earnings drop below the threshold. This provides a safety net for individuals who experience fluctuating income due to part-time work.
Another significant work incentive is the Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) deduction. This allows you to deduct the cost of certain impairment-related items and services that are necessary for you to work from your gross earnings when the SSA is determining whether you are performing SGA. These expenses can include items like medications, medical equipment, assistive devices, and transportation costs specifically related to your disability and work. By deducting these expenses, you effectively lower your countable income, making it easier to stay below the SGA threshold.
For SSI recipients, the rules are slightly different, focusing more heavily on the impact of earned income on the benefit amount. SSI is a needs-based program, and your benefits are reduced based on your income. The SSA uses a formula to calculate this reduction. Generally, the SSA disregards the first $65 of earned income in a month, plus one-half of the remaining earnings. This means that for every $2 you earn above $65, your SSI benefit will be reduced by $1. This is designed to encourage work while still providing a safety net for those with limited income and resources.
Furthermore, SSI recipients can also benefit from the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) program. A PASS allows you to set aside income and resources specifically for a work-related goal, such as starting a business or receiving vocational training. The income and resources set aside under a PASS are not counted when determining your SSI eligibility or benefit amount, allowing you to accumulate assets for self-sufficiency without jeopardizing your benefits.
It is crucial to understand that the SSA requires beneficiaries to report all work activity and earnings promptly. Failure to do so can result in overpayments, which you will be required to repay, and potentially even penalties. Keeping accurate records of your earnings, expenses, and work hours is essential for compliance.
Considering the complexity of these regulations, seeking guidance from a qualified benefits counselor or attorney specializing in Social Security disability is highly recommended. These professionals can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and help you navigate the often-confusing rules and regulations. They can also assist with reporting requirements, filing appeals, and developing a plan to maximize your income while maintaining your eligibility for benefits.
In conclusion, working part-time while receiving SSDI or SSI is possible, but requires careful planning and adherence to the SSA's regulations. Understanding the SGA threshold, utilizing work incentives such as the TWP, EPE, IRWE, and PASS, and diligently reporting all work activity are crucial for maintaining your benefits. Seeking professional guidance is strongly advised to ensure compliance and optimize your financial well-being. The ultimate goal is to explore your work potential safely and sustainably, while ensuring your continued access to essential disability benefits.