Can I Still Qualify for SSDI Benefits in Texas if I Work Part-Time?

 Posted on March 24, 2025 in Social Security Disability

If you are in Texas and receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you might wonder whether working part-time could affect your eligibility. While SSDI recipients are allowed to work under certain conditions, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules about income limits and reporting requirements. There are several concepts with their own acronyms that describe various guidelines and limitations. To avoid jeopardizing your benefits, speak with a knowledgeable Texas SSDI benefits attorney at The Law Offices of Coats & Todd who can explain your options.

What Is Considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?

The SSA limits how much money you can earn monthly while still qualifying for SSDI benefits. In 2024, the "substantial gainful activity" (SGA) limit was $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals. If you earned more than that from your part-time work, the SSA might consider you capable of working at a more significant level, which could disqualify you from SSDI benefits. While some SSDI recipients work part-time to supplement their income, you need to make sure you do not exceed the SGA limit to still receive your benefits.

What Is a Trial Work Period (TWP)?

The SSA allows SSDI recipients to test out a Trial Work Period (TWP) during which they can examine their ability to work without immediately losing their benefits. During this period, you can earn any amount of money, even if it exceeds the SGA limit, for up to nine months within a rolling 60-month time frame.

After your TWP ends, the SSA can review your case to determine if you are capable of sustaining substantial gainful activity. If so, it might discontinue your SSDI benefits. However, if your earnings fall below the SGA limit, your benefits can continue.

What Is the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)?

When your TWP is over, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During this time, you can continue receiving benefits for any month in which your earnings are below the SGA limit. If your income exceeds the limit, your benefits may be suspended, but they can be reinstated if your earnings decrease again within the EPE timeframe.

Are There Any Texas-Specific Considerations for My SSDI Benefits?

SSDI is a federal program, but some Texas-specific considerations can also impact you. For example:

• Texas Workforce Commission (TWC): The TWC offers vocational rehabilitation services to help people with disabilities find part-time or flexible work that accommodates their health limitations.
• State-Sponsored Programs: Additional resources are available for qualifying disabled workers who need support balancing employment with their medical needs. Some of the services provided by these programs include job training, career counseling, and accommodations to facilitate part-time work.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Plano, TX SSDI Benefits Lawyer

It can be challenging trying to navigate SSDI rules. If you are interested in taking on some part-time work but want to maintain your benefits, speak with an experienced Collin County, TX disability attorney. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our team can help you understand income limits and reporting requirements and represent you if the SSA suspends your benefits unfairly. Call us at 972-671-9922 to schedule a free consultation so we can make sure your rights and financial stability are protected.