If you already receive social security disability or ssi benefits, can you work ?

The answer to this question will be similar to the answer given for the previous question (can you apply for social security disability or ssi if you are working?). Technically, you must simply stay under the SGA limit as determined for a specific year.

However, it should be said that individuals who are only applying for disability benefits are in a somewhat different position from individuals who are already receiving SSD (social security disability) or SSI benefits.

Individuals who are receiving benefits and are working may still be using up part of their trial work period (in 2007, earning over $640 per month made that month count as part of your trial work period) and you only get 9 months for your trial work period in a rolling five year period.

For safety's sake, if you work and draw social security disability benefits, you may find it safer to not only stay below SGA ($900 per month in 2007 but subject to change each year), but also stay under the trial work earnings limit ($640 per month in 2007, but also subject to change each year).

Please Note: To view the current amount for SGA, please visit this page -

SGA, substantial gainful activity


Return to the Social Security Disability SSI Benefits Blog




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