The Social Security Administration offers several work incentives designed to help SSDI beneficiaries transition back to employment without immediately losing their benefits. Understanding how these programs work in 2025 provides valuable opportunities for those able to attempt work.
The Trial Work Period (TWP) is a critical work incentive that allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work while continuing to receive full benefits regardless of earnings. In 2025, any month where you earn more than $1,160 counts as a TWP month 21. The TWP consists of 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) within a rolling 60-month period. During these 9 months, there is no limit to how much you can earn while still receiving your full SSDI benefit 19.
After completing the TWP, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During this time, you’ll receive benefits for months where your earnings fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level—$1,620 for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals in 2025 20.
The Ticket to Work program offers additional support for beneficiaries ready to pursue employment. This voluntary program provides:
- Free employment services through Employment Networks (ENs) or state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies
- Protection from medical Continuing Disability Reviews while making progress
- Work incentives planning and assistance
- Continued Medicare coverage for up to 8.5 years after returning to work, even if SSDI cash benefits end
Other valuable work incentives include:
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Deduction of disability-related work expenses from earnings when calculating SGA
- Expedited Reinstatement: Simplified process to restart benefits within 5 years if work attempt fails
- Subsidy and Special Conditions: Consideration of extra support or reduced productivity when calculating earnings
To participate in these programs, contact your local SSA office or call the Ticket to Work helpline at 1-866-968-7842. Working with a benefits counselor through Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) programs can help you understand how work will affect your specific benefits and develop a customized plan for employment transition.
