If you're receiving Social Security Disability and thinking about part-time work, you're probably asking one question: Will this cost me my benefits? The good news is that Social Security has built-in rules designed to let you try working without immediately losing support. The key is understanding how SSA counts your earnings and which work incentives apply.
SSDI: The Trial Work Period First
If you receive SSDI, the Trial Work Period (TWP) is your first line of protection. During the TWP, you can work and earn unlimited income for nine months — and still keep your full SSDI benefits. In 2026, a month counts as a TWP month only if you earn more than $1,160. After you use nine TWP months, the rules change.
What Happens After the Trial Work Period?
After the TWP, SSA looks at whether your earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2026, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you consistently earn above SGA, your SSDI benefits may stop. But even then, you have a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility where benefits can restart in any month your earnings fall below SGA — no new application needed.
SSI: Income Counts Differently
SSI is a needs-based program, so any earned income can reduce your monthly benefit. However, SSA does not count the first $65 of earned income plus half of anything above that. impairment-related work expenses may also reduce your countable income. Because SSI rules are more sensitive to work, it is especially important to report earnings promptly and keep good records.
Part-Time Work Is Usually Not the Problem
In most cases, modest part-time earnings below the SGA threshold will not end your SSDI benefits. The bigger risk is failing to report earnings, earning above the limits without realizing it, or trying to hide work from SSA. Transparency and documentation are the best protections.