# Can I work while on SSDI?

The SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) that lets recipients test working for up to 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) without losing SSDI, regardless of earnings during those months. After the TWP, an Extended Period of Eligibility applies, during which benefits stop only in months earnings exceed SGA.

**Direct answer:** Yes — you can work while on SSDI, but if your monthly earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold — $1,690 in 2026 for non-blind recipients — the SSA can end your benefits.

## What is the earnings limit?
Earnings above the [SGA](/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity) limit ($1,690/month in 2026 for non-blind) can end SSDI.

   
## What is the Trial Work Period?
A 9-month period (across a rolling 60-month window) when you can earn any amount without losing SSDI.

   
## What happens after the Trial Work Period?
A 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility follows, where benefits pause only in months earnings exceed SGA.

## Sources
- SSA — 2024/2025 Red Book (Working While Disabled) — https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/
- SSA — Substantial Gainful Activity — https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/sga.html

## Related questions
- [What is substantial gainful activity?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity)
- [Can my SSDI be taken away?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/can-my-ssdi-be-taken-away)
## Topics
- Substantial Gainful Activity — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity
- SSDI — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/ssdi

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Published: 2026-07-16T02:34:38.807417+00:00
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Disclaimer: SSDI Direct Answers is a private informational website. It is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration or any government agency. Informational only — not legal, medical, or financial advice. For official information visit ssa.gov.