Understanding SSDI Work Rules in Indiana

SSDI benefits are based on your inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). This means you cannot work full-time or earn above a specific monthly limit set by the SSA. However, part-time work is allowed as long as your earnings remain under the threshold.

• For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals.
• If you earn less than these amounts, you may still be considered disabled and eligible for benefits.
• Earnings above these limits could lead the SSA to review and possibly stop your benefits.

Trial Work Period and Extended Eligibility

The SSA provides special programs to encourage people to test their ability to return to work:

1. Trial Work Period (TWP)

• You can earn any amount for 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 5-year period while keeping your full benefits.
• For 2025, any month where you earn over $1,110 counts as a trial work month.

2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

• After your TWP ends, you get a 36-month safety net period.
• During this time, you will continue receiving SSDI benefits in any month your earnings fall below the SGA limit.

3. Expedited Reinstatement

• If your benefits stop because you earned too much but later you cannot continue working, you may request expedited reinstatement without filing a new SSDI application.

Factors to Consider Before Working Part-Time

• Medical Condition: If work worsens your health, it may affect your medical evidence for future reviews.
• Type of Work: Jobs requiring physical or mental effort may raise questions about whether you remain disabled.
• Reporting Requirements: Always report work activity and earnings to the SSA to avoid overpayments or penalties.
• Consistency: Sporadic or low-level part-time work is usually fine, but steady higher earnings may trigger a review.