If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Texas, you may be wondering whether you can work part-time without losing your benefits. The short answer is yes—you can work part-time, but the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules about how much you can earn. Knowing these limits can help you avoid losing the financial support you rely on.
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The Role of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
The SSA uses a standard called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to decide if your work is too much to still qualify as disabled. In 2025:
- Non-Blind Individuals: You can earn up to $1,550 per month without being considered at SGA.
- Blind Individuals: The limit is $2,590 per month.
If you earn more than these amounts, the SSA may decide you’re not disabled, and your SSDI benefits could stop.
Trial Work Period (TWP) in Texas
The SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP), allowing SSDI recipients to test working while still receiving full benefits. During a TWP:
- Any month you earn more than $1,110 (2025) counts as a trial work month.
- You can have up to 9 trial months within a rolling 60-month period.
- During those months, you receive your full SSDI benefits no matter how much you earn.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your Trial Work Period ends, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During this time:
- You keep receiving SSDI benefits in months when your income falls below the SGA limit.
- If your income goes over the limit, your benefits may be suspended—but can restart if your earnings drop again.
Unsuccessful Work Attempts
If you try to work part-time in Texas but have to stop within six months due to your disability, the SSA may consider it an unsuccessful work attempt. In this case, your part-time earnings won’t count against your eligibility.
Why Part-Time Work Rules Matter
Working part-time can help SSDI recipients in Texas earn extra income and stay active. But it’s critical to follow SSA rules, track your earnings, and understand the limits to avoid losing benefits.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Navigating part-time work while on SSDI can be tricky. Hogan Smith can:
- Explain how the SSA’s work rules apply to your situation.
- Help you track your income to stay within SSA limits.
- Assist with Trial Work Period and Extended Eligibility questions.
- Represent you if the SSA challenges your work activity.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re considering part-time work while on SSDI in Texas, don’t risk your benefits. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation, and let our team guide you on how to safely work part-time while protecting your SSDI support.
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