Trial Work Period — A Safety Net for SSDI Beneficiaries
What happens if you receive SSDI but want to try working again?
You may be worried that going back to work means losing your disability benefits right away. But Social Security has a rule designed to give you some room to try.
It is called the Trial Work Period.
What Is the Trial Work Period?
The Trial Work Period is a work incentive for people who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
It allows you to test your ability to work without immediately losing your SSDI benefits.
You can have at least 9 months during a rolling 60-month period to test your ability to work. These months do not have to be consecutive. During your Trial Work Period, you can continue receiving your full SSDI benefit as long as you report your work and continue to have a disabling impairment.
In 2026, a month generally counts toward your Trial Work Period if you earn more than $1,210 before taxes. Different rules can apply to people who are self-employed.
If you are not yet receiving benefits but have concerns about financial safety, read about How to Survive Financially While Waiting For Disability.
Why Does This Safety Net Exist?
Returning to work is not always as simple as it sounds.
You may feel better and want to try working again. But you may not know if your health will allow you to keep working.
The Trial Work Period gives you a chance to find out.
You can test your ability to work without having your SSDI benefits immediately stop because of your work activity. Social Security describes the Trial Work Period as a way to test your ability to work while still receiving benefits.
And the safety net does not end after those 9 months.
After the Trial Work Period, you may enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility. During this period, you may still receive SSDI for months when your earnings are below Social Security’s substantial gainful activity level.
One Important Reminder
The Trial Work Period applies to SSDI, not SSI. Work and earnings can affect SSI under different rules.
If you receive disability benefits and are thinking about returning to work, make sure you understand the rules that apply to your situation. You should also report your work activity to Social Security.
Are You Considering Applying for Disability?
If you are struggling with a medical condition and are wondering whether disability benefits could be an option, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Take a quick, free online evaluation with AppAid to learn more about your situation and whether applying for disability may be an option for you.
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