Understanding the Work Rules for SSDI and SSI

Whether you’re receiving SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), the rules about working while on disability are different:

For SSDI:

• You can work during a Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits.
• In 2025, any month you earn more than $1,110 counts as a TWP month.
• After the TWP, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During this time, you can keep your benefits as long as your earnings stay below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit (currently $1,550/month for non-blind individuals).

For SSI:

• SSI is income-based, so any income (including earnings from work) can reduce your monthly benefit.
• The SSA uses a formula that excludes the first $85 of income, then reduces your benefit by $1 for every $2 you earn after that.
• You must still be considered medically disabled.

Work Incentives That Help You Keep Benefits

The SSA provides work incentive programs to encourage beneficiaries to try working without losing their support:

• Ticket to Work Program – Offers vocational rehabilitation and job support at no cost
• Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) – Allows deduction of certain disability-related expenses from your income
• Expedited Reinstatement – If your benefits stop due to work but you can’t continue working, you may quickly reinstate benefits without a new application

Working While on Disability in Ohio

Ohio follows all SSA federal rules, but the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) may also offer local programs or assistance to help those with disabilities find part-time or modified work.

If you are working while receiving benefits, it’s important to:

• Report your income and job changes to the SSA right away
• Keep records of hours, wages, and job duties
• Work with a disability advocate or lawyer if you’re unsure how working will affect your case