Why it exists
People on SSDI are worried that a job could end their benefits immediately. The work incentive rules let you test your ability to work while keeping your benefits.
1. Trial work period (TWP)
You get nine trial months, which do not have to be consecutive, within a rolling 60-month period. A month counts as a trial month if your earnings are above the trial-work amount ($1,210 in 2026; $1,270 in 2027), or if you are self-employed and work more than 80 hours. During the trial months you receive your full SSDI check no matter how much you earn.
2. Extended period of eligibility (EPE)
After the trial period, you enter a 36-month extended period of eligibility. During these 36 months:
| Your earnings that month | Result |
|---|---|
| Below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit | You receive your SSDI benefit |
| At or above SGA | No SSDI check that month (but your eligibility continues) |
The SGA limit is $1,690 a month in 2026 for most people and $2,830 for people who are blind. In 2027 it rises to $1,770 and $2,950. SSA also gives a short grace period after the trial work period ends: you receive benefits for the first month your work is at or above SGA and the next two months.
3. Easy return if you stop working
If your benefits stop because of work, you can ask for expedited reinstatement within five years, without filing a new application, if you can no longer work because of your disability.
Medicare keeps going
Medicare coverage generally continues for at least 93 months (about 7 years and 9 months) after your trial work period ends, even if your SSDI payments stop because of work.
Other tools
- Impairment-related work expenses: certain disability-related costs can be subtracted when SSA decides whether your earnings are above SGA.
- Ticket to Work: a free program that offers job training and support. Ask SSA or an employment network.
- Report your work: tell SSA about starting work, and keep pay stubs, so you do not receive an overpayment. See what to do about overpayments.