Working Part-Time on SSDI or SSI in 2025: What You Need to Know

Many people applying for or already receiving Social Security Disability benefits wonder: Can I work part-time and still qualify for SSDI or SSI in 2025? The answer is yes — but there are strict rules about how much you can earn without jeopardizing your benefits.

Understanding the Basics: SSDI vs. SSI

Before diving in, it’s important to distinguish between the two disability programs:

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is for workers who have paid into the Social Security system through taxes and have earned enough work credits.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

The rules for part-time work vary slightly between the two programs.

Working While on SSDI in 2025

If you receive SSDI, you can work part-time, but the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is expected to be around $1,550 per month (or more if you’re blind). Earning above that amount may lead to the termination of your benefits.

However, the Trial Work Period (TWP) gives you a chance to test working without losing benefits right away. In 2025, any month where you earn $1,110 or more may count toward the 9-month TWP.

After that period, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) where you can still receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below SGA.

Working While on SSI in 2025

SSI is income-sensitive. If you work while on SSI, your monthly benefit will typically be reduced, not eliminated — unless your income exceeds certain thresholds.

Here’s a basic breakdown:

The first $20 of unearned income and $65 of earned income don’t count.
After that, only half of your remaining earned income is deducted from your SSI benefit.

This means you can still earn some money and retain partial benefits.

Example: If you earn $885/month, only $400 is counted, and your SSI benefit will be reduced by that amount.

Will You Still Get Medicaid or Medicare?

SSDI recipients qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.
SSI recipients often qualify for Medicaid right away.

Even if your SSI benefits stop due to work, Medicaid coverage can continue under Section 1619(b) — as long as you remain disabled and your earnings are below a state-specific threshold (often over $40,000/year in some states).

Final Thoughts

In 2025, you can work part-time while receiving SSDI or SSI — but staying under the income limits and following the SSA’s rules is crucial. If you're unsure how part-time work might affect your benefits, consult Crossroads Disability by calling us or clicking the Free Case Evaluation button to see if you have a good case.

< Older Post