Understanding the SSDI Work Rules

The SSA allows beneficiaries to work and still receive SSDI payments under certain conditions. The main factor is whether your earnings exceed Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) — the monthly income threshold that determines if your work is considered “substantial.”

As of 2025, the SGA limit is:

• $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals.
• $2,590 per month for blind individuals.

If you earn below this limit, your SSDI benefits generally continue. But if your income goes above it, the SSA may decide that you are no longer disabled for benefit purposes.

Trial Work Period (TWP)

The SSA gives SSDI recipients a Trial Work Period to test their ability to return to work without immediately losing benefits. During this period, you can earn any amount of income for nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 60-month window.

In 2025, any month you earn over $1,110 counts as a trial work month.

After your nine-month trial period ends, the SSA reviews your income to decide if you are performing substantial gainful activity. If not, your benefits continue under an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) for another 36 months, as long as your income remains below the SGA limit.

How Part-Time Work Affects SSDI in Alabama

Working part-time can be beneficial for SSDI recipients who want to stay active or earn extra income. However, you must report all work activity and income to the SSA to prevent complications.

Here’s how it can impact you:

• Earnings Below SGA – If your part-time income stays below the monthly limit, your SSDI payments continue.
• Earnings Above SGA – Earning over the SGA limit after your trial work period can lead to suspension or termination of benefits.
• Medical Reviews – Consistent work activity may trigger a Continuing Disability Review (CDR), where the SSA re-evaluates your medical eligibility.

How to Report Part-Time Work to the SSA

Always notify the SSA when you start or stop working, or when your income changes. You can:

• Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
• Visit your local SSA office in Alabama
• Report online through your my Social Security account

Failing to report changes may cause overpayments, which you’ll have to repay later.

Tips for Working Part-Time on SSDI

• Track Your Income – Keep records of your earnings to make sure you stay under the SGA limit.
• Start Slowly – Begin with limited hours and monitor how work affects your health and finances.
• Stay in Touch with SSA – Report changes promptly to avoid interruptions in benefits.
• Consult a Disability Attorney – If you’re unsure how working might affect your case, get professional guidance.