Can You Work While Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?

When you apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you may be wondering if it’s possible to work while still receiving support. After all, you may be able to perform some light work or freelance tasks despite your disability. Fortunately, Social Security does allow individuals receiving disability benefits to work under certain conditions. However, there are rules and guidelines you must follow to ensure you remain eligible for benefits.

Understanding SSD Benefits and Work Limitations

Social Security Disability benefits are designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) sets strict guidelines to determine whether someone is truly unable to work or whether they could engage in some type of employment.

If you are receiving SSD benefits, you may still be able to work, but there are limits to how much income you can earn before it affects your eligibility for benefits.

The Trial Work Period

One of the key provisions in the SSD program is the “Trial Work Period” (TWP). This allows you to test your ability to work without immediately losing your benefits. The TWP gives you the opportunity to work for a limited time to see if you can handle a job, and during this time, your benefits will not be impacted.

Here’s how it works:

• During the Trial Work Period, you can earn any amount of income. 
• The TWP lasts for nine months, but these nine months do not have to be consecutive. They are spread out over a five-year period. 
• You must earn more than a specific amount each month for your work to count as part of the TWP. For 2025, this amount is $1,050 per month. This threshold is adjusted annually, so be sure to check current figures with the SSA. 

After you complete the Trial Work Period, your work history will be reviewed, and the SSA will determine whether you can continue to receive benefits while working.

Substantial Gainful Activity Limit

After the Trial Work Period, if you continue to work, you will need to consider the “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA) limit. The SSA sets an income threshold that defines what constitutes SGA. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 per month for blind individuals.

If you earn above this threshold, you may no longer be eligible for SSD benefits. The SSA will review your work and income, and if they determine that you are performing substantial work, your benefits may be stopped.

The Importance of Reporting Your Work to the SSA

It’s important to understand that you must report any work activity to the SSA. Failing to do so can lead to an overpayment of benefits, which you will be required to repay. Additionally, if you are working while receiving benefits, you should keep track of your earnings and notify the SSA immediately if your income exceeds the Trial Work Period or SGA limits.

The SSA provides multiple ways to report your earnings, including online, by phone, or through your local SSA office. Transparency is key to maintaining eligibility for benefits and avoiding complications.

The Impact of Working on Your SSD Benefits

Working while receiving SSD benefits can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it can provide much-needed financial relief. On the other hand, it can jeopardize your benefits if you exceed the income thresholds. However, there are some protections in place to ensure you aren’t immediately cut off from benefits.

For example, if your benefits stop because you’re earning above the SGA limit, the SSA has a “continuing disability review” process. This means that your eligibility for SSD benefits will be periodically reviewed, but if your disability worsens or you can no longer work, you may be able to start receiving benefits again.

Another key consideration is that your work could affect your Medicare coverage. SSD recipients are generally eligible for Medicare benefits after 24 months of receiving disability benefits. If you return to work and exceed the SGA limit, you may still be entitled to Medicare coverage, but it’s important to monitor any changes.

What to Do If You Want to Work While on SSD

If you are considering working while on SSD, the first step is to reach out to the SSA for advice and guidance. The SSA can provide detailed information about your eligibility to work and the impact it will have on your benefits. If you choose to work, be sure to track your earnings carefully and report them to the SSA as required.

It’s also a good idea to consult with an attorney who specializes in Social Security Disability claims. An attorney can help you understand the nuances of the SSA’s rules and how your work might affect your benefits. They can also assist with appealing decisions or helping you navigate the complex process if you face challenges in your case.

Conclusion

In summary, you can work while receiving Social Security Disability benefits, but there are strict rules in place that you must follow. The Trial Work Period allows you to test your ability to work without losing benefits, and the Substantial Gainful Activity limit sets a threshold for the amount you can earn without affecting your eligibility.

Before you start working, it’s essential to understand how your income and work activity can impact your benefits. Make sure you report your earnings to the SSA and stay within the limits to avoid complications. With the right planning, working while receiving SSD benefits is possible, but it requires careful monitoring and compliance with SSA rules.

If you have questions or concerns about working while on SSD, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional legal help. A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance and ensure your rights are protected.