Will I Lose My Disability If I Work Part-Time? (2026 SSDI/SSI Guide)
Will I lose my disability if I work part-time? In most cases, no — you can work part-time while receiving SSDI or SSI, as long as your earnings stay within Social Security’s limits. Here’s what you need to know.
SSDI and Part-Time Work: The SGA Limit
For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), what matters isn’t hours — it’s earnings. Social Security uses “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA) limits:
- 2025 SGA limit: $1,620/month for non-blind individuals ($2,700 for blind individuals). These figures are adjusted yearly — check the SSA website for the current year.
- If you earn below the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits generally continue.
- Earning above SGA may trigger a review of your disability status.
The Trial Work Period (TWP)
SSDI offers a 9-month Trial Work Period during which you can earn any amount and still receive full benefits. This lets you test whether you can return to work without risking your benefits immediately.
SSI and Part-Time Work
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) reduces benefits gradually as you earn — roughly $1 reduction for every $2 earned after the first $85/month. You won’t lose everything at once; many SSI recipients work part-time.
Tips to Protect Your Benefits
- Report all earnings to Social Security promptly.
- Keep earnings below SGA if you want benefits to continue uninterrupted.
- Use the Ticket to Work program for free employment support.
- Consider a benefits counselor before starting work.
Note: This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change yearly — confirm current figures with the Social Security Administration.
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