Many people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Texas wonder if they can return to work part-time or earn income without losing their benefits. The good news is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows you to work under certain rules while continuing to receive SSDI. Here is a detailed overview to help you understand how working while on SSDI in Texas works.
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1. Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
SSDI benefits are designed for individuals who cannot engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) due to their medical condition. In 2025, SGA is defined as:
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals
- $2,590 per month for blind individuals
If you earn above these limits, SSA generally considers you able to engage in substantial work and may stop your SSDI benefits.
2. The Trial Work Period (TWP)
SSDI includes a Trial Work Period (TWP) that allows you to test your ability to work without losing benefits immediately:
- You can work for 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) within a rolling 60-month period
- In 2025, any month you earn over $1,110 (TWP amount) counts as a trial work month
- During these months, you receive your full SSDI benefit regardless of how much you earn
3. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After completing your TWP:
- You enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
- During EPE, you continue receiving benefits for any month your income falls below the SGA limit
- If you earn above SGA, you will not receive SSDI for that month, but your case remains open
4. Expedited Reinstatement
If your benefits stop due to work earnings and you become unable to continue working within 5 years, you can request Expedited Reinstatement:
- You won’t need to file a new application
- You can receive provisional benefits for up to 6 months while SSA reviews your reinstatement request
5. Reporting Requirements
If you start working while on SSDI:
- You must report all earnings, hours worked, and changes in work activity to SSA immediately
- Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties
You can report by:
- Calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213
- Visiting your local Social Security office
- Using your my Social Security online account
6. Impact on Medicare
If you receive SSDI, you qualify for Medicare after 24 months of entitlement. If you work:
- Medicare coverage continues during TWP and EPE
- After EPE, you may keep Medicare coverage for up to 93 months (over 7 years) total, even if you lose SSDI due to work
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Navigating the rules about working while receiving SSDI can be complex. Hogan Smith can:
- Help you understand how much you can safely earn without risking your benefits
- Ensure you comply with reporting requirements to avoid overpayments
- Assist with Expedited Reinstatement if your condition worsens after returning to work
- Advise you on how work incentives apply to your specific situation
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Thinking about working while on SSDI in Texas? Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation today. We will guide you step by step to protect your benefits while maximizing your financial independence.
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