When you are receiving SSDI, it can be intimidating to think about going back to work, even if you feel you might be able to handle it. What if you push yourself too far? What if you lose your benefits for trying?
At Tabak Law, we understand the uncertainty and fear that can come with testing your ability to work again. The good news is, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a Trial Work Period (TWP). A Trial Work Period serves as a safety net that allows you to explore employment without the risk of losing your SSDI benefits. In this blog, we’ll discuss what the Trial Work Period is, how it works, and how to protect your rights and your health while transitioning back into the workforce.
What Is the Trial Work Period?
The SSA’s Trial Work Period allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work for up to nine months within a 60-month rolling window. During these months, you can earn income without losing your SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you make. It’s a way to see if steady employment is feasible for you without the immediate threat of losing crucial financial support.
Each month you earn over a set amount, $1,110 in 2024, it counts as one TWP month. These months don’t have to be consecutive, which gives you some flexibility if your condition is unpredictable or worsens periodically.
Read More: How Does SSDI Work if You Were Self-Employed?
Why the Trial Work Period Matters
SSDI benefits can be life-changing. But for many people, the desire to regain independence through work is strong, even if their condition still presents challenges. The Trial Work Period recognizes that recovery isn’t black and white. It offers a safe way to try working again, especially if you’re unsure how your body or mind will handle employment.
And here’s the best part: you keep your full SSDI benefit during the TWP, no matter how much you earn or how many hours you work.
What Happens After the Trial Work Period?
Once you’ve gone through all nine trial work months, the SSA will start monitoring your income more closely through what’s called the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). This 36-month window will determine whether your work activity constitutes Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for those who are blind. Meaning, if you earn over this amount, you may get your SSDI benefits taken away.
But if you earn less than that in any given month, your benefits may continue. This phase is more complex and comes with additional rules, which is why working with a disability attorney is so important.
Learn More: Do you Get SSDI for Life?
Tips for Navigating the TWP Successfully
1. Track Your Income Closely
Keep detailed records of your earnings and hours worked. Even a small increase in hours or pay could push you over the monthly threshold and trigger a TWP month.
2. Communicate with the SSA
Notify the SSA as soon as you begin working. Failing to report your work activity could result in overpayments or penalties down the road.
3. Understand Your Limits
This period is about testing your ability to work, not proving anything to anyone else. If your condition worsens or you find working unsustainable, you can stop and still retain your SSDI benefits.
4. Talk to Your Doctor
Before you attempt to start working again, make sure you check with your doctor. It is important to be safe and not overwork yourself, and your doctor can provide insights into whether working is a good idea.
You’re Not Alone — Tabak Law Can Help
The idea of going back into the workforce after receiving SSDI can be really stressful. The Trial Work Period is designed to give piece of mind and allow you to test your abilities without losing you benefits right away.
At Tabak Law, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the TWP and other SSDI situations. No matter where you are in your SSDI journey, we can guide you through every step, protecting your benefits and your peace of mind. Contact us today for a consultation.