SSI & SSDI Work Incentives: How to Work Without Losing Benefits

If you receive SSI or SSDI, you can often work and keep some or all of your benefits under specific programs called work incentives. This guide explains how these incentives work, what income counts, and how to report wages safely.

Key Points

Work incentives help people try employment without instantly losing benefits.
Rules differ between SSI and SSDI.
Always report wages monthly to avoid overpayments.
Use available programs for training, education, and employer supports.

SSDI Work Incentives

Trial Work Period (TWP)

Lets you test working for at least 9 months (not necessarily consecutive).
You can earn any amount during TWP months and still receive full SSDI.
After TWP, a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) allows quick reinstatement if earnings drop below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.

Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)

If benefits stopped because of work but you can’t continue working within 5 years, you can request EXR without re-applying.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)

Costs for disability-related items or services (e.g., assistive tech, specialized transportation) can be deducted from earnings when calculating eligibility.

SSI Work Incentives

General & Earned Income Exclusions

The first $20 of any income and $65 of earned income (plus half of remaining earnings) are excluded when figuring SSI payment reductions.

Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE)

For students under 22 regularly attending school.
Excludes up to a monthly and yearly maximum (adjusted annually).

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

Allows setting aside income/resources to reach a work goal (education, starting a business, etc.) without reducing SSI.

Blind Work Expenses (BWE)

For SSI recipients who are blind—deduct certain expenses (e.g., guide dog, transportation, taxes) from earned income.

Ticket to Work Program

Voluntary program offering free employment services and supports through approved providers.
While participating, SSA won’t review your disability status as long as you make timely progress toward your plan.
Available to most SSI and SSDI beneficiaries aged 18–64.

Reporting Wages

Report wages within 10 days after the month ends.
Use the my Social Security online wage reporting tool or local office.
Keep all pay stubs and receipts.
Confirm SSA logged your report—get a receipt each time.

FAQs

Can I work full-time on SSI?

You can, but your payment will decrease as income rises; report wages to avoid overpayment.

Will working trigger a medical review?

Not if you’re in Ticket to Work and meeting goals.

How do I know if I passed the SGA limit?

SSA updates SGA amounts yearly; check the current limit on SSA.gov.

Can my benefits restart automatically if I stop working?

Yes, during the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) or through Expedited Reinstatement (EXR).