Starting January 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is implementing significant changes to support individuals who wish to work while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
These updates aim to provide greater flexibility and encourage beneficiaries to re-enter the workforce without jeopardizing their benefits.
Trial Work Period (TWP) Threshold
The TWP allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work without losing benefits. In 2025, the monthly earnings threshold for a trial work month is expected to be $1,050.
Earning above this amount in a month will count as one of the nine trial work months, which can be non-consecutive, within a 60-month period.
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limits
SGA refers to the level of work activity and earnings that demonstrate a person’s ability to engage in competitive employment.
For non-blind SSDI recipients in 2025, the SGA limit is set at $1,460 per month. Earnings above this threshold may result in the cessation of benefits after the TWP is exhausted.
SSI Income Limits and Exclusions
SSI is a need-based program with strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the general income limit for individuals is expected to remain around $1,000 per month. However, certain exclusions apply:
- Earned Income Exclusion: The first $65 of earned income, plus half of the amount over $65, is excluded from countable income.
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Costs related to disability that are necessary for work (e.g., specialized equipment, transportation) can be deducted from gross earnings, potentially allowing higher earnings without reducing SSI benefits.
Ticket to Work Program
This voluntary program offers free employment support services to SSDI and SSI beneficiaries aged 18 to 64. Services include job training, vocational rehabilitation, and other assistance to help individuals achieve financial independence through work. Participation in the program may also provide protection from medical Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs).
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
To keep up with inflation, the SSA provides annual COLAs. While the exact percentage for 2025 will be announced in late 2024, beneficiaries can anticipate an increase in their monthly payments to help maintain purchasing power.
| Key Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Trial Work Period (TWP) Threshold | Expected to be $1,050 or more per month. |
| Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) | $1,460 per month for non-blind SSDI recipients. |
| SSI Income Limit | Likely to remain around $1,000 for individuals. |
| Impairment-Related Work Expenses | Costs for disability-related work expenses can be deducted. |
| Ticket to Work Program | Offers free job training and support for SSDI/SSI recipients. |
| Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) | COLA adjustments expected to continue for 2025. |
These updates present significant opportunities for SSDI and SSI recipients to engage in work activities while retaining their benefits. It’s essential to understand these changes and consult with the SSA or a benefits counselor to make informed decisions that align with your financial and personal goals.
FAQs
1. Can I work-time while receiving SSDI benefits?
Yes, during the Trial Work Period, you can work full-time and earn any amount without losing SSDI benefits. After completing the TWP, if your earnings exceed the SGA limit ($1,460/month for non-blind individuals in 2025), your benefits may cease.
2. How do Impairment-Related Work Expenses affect my SSI benefits?
IRWEs are costs for items or services you need to work due to your disability. These expenses can be deducted from your gross earnings, reducing countable income and potentially allowing you to earn more without decreasing your SSI benefits.
3. What is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work Program provides free employment services, such as job training and vocational rehabilitation, to SSDI and SSI beneficiaries aged 18 to 64, aiming to help them achieve financial independence through work.
4. Will my benefits increase with the Cost of Living Adjustment?
Yes, the SSA typically announces annual COLAs to adjust benefits based on inflation, helping maintain the purchasing power of your benefits.
