The short answer: work does not immediately cancel SSDI. Social Security gives you a 9-month Trial Work Period and 36 more months of protection before benefits can end. Here's the full picture.
Quick answer calculator
Enter your hourly wage, weekly hours, and current SSDI amount to see where you land in the work rules.
Check my work impactThe three phases of SSDI + work
1. Trial Work Period (TWP)
You get up to 9 months where you can earn over the TWP limit and still receive full SSDI cash benefits. In 2026 the limit is $1,210/mo.
2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
For 36 months after your TWP, cash benefits restart in low-earning months and stop in months you earn over SGA.
3. After EPE (SGA decision)
If you consistently earn over SGA ($1,690/mo in 2026 for non-blind), SSDI cash can end. Medicare continues for 93 more months.
What about SSI?
SSI is different. Because SSI is needs-based, wages reduce your check much faster. For every dollar you earn, your SSI may drop by roughly 50 cents after small disregards. SSDI is not needs-based, which is why the work rules are more forgiving.
What about my housing voucher?
Work income also counts toward Housing Choice Voucher income limits. In Fairfax County, voucher eligibility is usually capped around 50% AMI. The work calculator shows whether your earnings would put you near that limit.
Estimate voucher impactFrequently asked questions
Will I lose SSDI immediately if I start working?
No. You can work during the 9-month Trial Work Period and keep full SSDI cash benefits. Only after TWP and EPE can consistent earnings over SGA end benefits.
Does Medicare end if SSDI cash stops?
No. Medicare Part B continues for at least 93 months (7 years and 9 months) after your Trial Work Period ends.
What counts as SGA in 2026?
For non-blind individuals, SGA is $1,690/mo in gross earnings in 2026. The amount for blind individuals is higher.
Should I report my wages to Social Security?
Yes. Report wages as soon as you start working. This helps SSA track your TWP months and prevents overpayments.
Take the next step
🧮 Work Scenario Calculator
Plug in your wage and hours to see monthly gross, take-home, and risk level.
Open work calculator🗓️ SSDI Work Timeline
Enter your TWP start date to see exact TWP, EPE, and Medicare milestones.
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