1. Can You Work Part-Time While on SSDI in New Jersey?

Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits, but there are specific guidelines to follow. Here's what you need to know about balancing work and SSDI eligibility:

• Trial Work Period (TWP) – The SSA allows you to test your ability to work through the Trial Work Period. During this period, you can work any number of hours or earn any amount for up to 9 months without losing your benefits.
• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) – After the Trial Work Period ends, you must ensure your earnings stay below the SGA limit to continue receiving SSDI benefits. For 2025, the SGA limit is set at $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals.
• Reporting Earnings – You must report all earnings to the SSA. Failing to report can lead to overpayments, penalties, or even suspension of benefits.
• Work Incentives – The SSA offers other work incentives, such as Expedited Reinstatement of benefits if your work attempts don’t last or your disability worsens, allowing you to reinstate benefits without a new application.

2. Important Considerations for Part-Time Work on SSDI

While working part-time is allowed, certain conditions must be met to avoid losing SSDI benefits:

• No Impact During Trial Work Period – The Trial Work Period enables you to test your ability to work without impacting your benefits. You can earn above the SGA limit during this period without penalty.
• Keep Track of Your Earnings – Once the Trial Work Period ends, if your earnings exceed the SGA threshold, you risk losing SSDI eligibility.
• Work Incentive Programs – The SSA has programs like the Ticket to Work program that helps you return to work gradually while receiving benefits. These programs offer support and job training.
• Eligibility Reviews – If you earn above the SGA limit, the SSA will review your eligibility for benefits, so it’s essential to stay within the earnings limit to avoid complications.

3. What if I exceed the SGA limit while working part-time on SSDI?

If your part-time work leads to exceeding the SGA limit, there are important consequences to be aware of:

• Potential Loss of Benefits – Earning above the SGA threshold for an extended period may lead to the cessation of SSDI benefits. This is typically reviewed after a few months of exceeding the limit.
• Reinstatement Option – If you lose your benefits, you can potentially reapply for SSDI. The SSA offers a process called Expedited Reinstatement to help you quickly regain your benefits if you stop working or your health declines again.
• Continuation of Health Benefits – Even if you exceed the SGA limit, you might be able to keep your Medicare or Medicaid benefits for a while through the extended period of eligibility, depending on the amount of time you worked.

4. How to Navigate Part-Time Work While on SSDI

Successfully balancing part-time work and SSDI benefits requires careful planning and awareness of the rules:



• Consult with the SSA – Before starting part-time work, it’s wise to consult with the SSA to understand how your employment might affect your benefits.
• Track Your Hours and Earnings – Keep detailed records of your work hours and earnings to avoid exceeding the SGA threshold and to ensure compliance with SSDI guidelines.
• Understand Work Incentives – Take full advantage of SSA’s work incentives and programs to ease the transition back to the workforce while keeping your benefits intact.
• Professional Advice – Consider seeking advice from an SSDI attorney or financial advisor who can help you manage your transition to part-time work while maintaining your benefits.