If you're receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and want to test your ability to work again without risking your benefits right away, the Trial Work Period (TWP) is a key feature of the SSA's return-to-work incentives you should know about. It allows you to try working for at least nine months while still receiving your full SSDI payments, giving you room to increase your earnings and explore long-term employment possibilities. 

This article will help you understand what the TWP is, how it works, how it affects your benefits, and how to make the most of it; especially if you're thinking about qualifying for disability or returning to work. For one-on-one help, contact us. We’re an SSA-approved Employment Network dedicated to helping people with disabilities transition back to work safely and confidently. 

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What Is the Trial Work Period? 

The Trial Work Period is a provision under SSDI that gives beneficiaries the chance to test their ability to work for up to nine months without losing their benefits, even if you earn above the standard income limit. 

Any month in which your earnings exceed the SSA Trial Work threshold or you work more than a set number of hours if self-employed can count toward your nine Trial Work Period months. These months don’t need to be consecutive and may be spread out over a 60-month rolling period. 

Key Rules to Know 

  • You must already be approved for and receiving SSDI — the TWP does not apply to SSI recipients. 
  • You can earn any amount of income during the nine months, and you'll still receive your full SSDI benefits. 
  • You must report your earnings and work activity to the SSA during the Trial Work Period. 
  • After the nine-month TWP ends, your work activity will enter a new phase called the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), which has different rules for how earnings affect benefits. 

How the Trial Work Period Works Step-by-Step 

  • Receive SSDI benefits. You must already be receiving SSDI and still meet SSA’s definition of disability. 
  • Start working. Any month where your earnings exceed the SSA's Trial Work threshold can count toward your nine-month Trial Work Period. 
  • Track your TWP months. The nine months don’t have to be in a row, they’re tracked over a 60-month rolling period. 
  • Continue receiving full SSDI checks. Regardless of how much you earn, you will still receive your SSDI check during each TWP month, as long as you remain disabled. 
  • After nine months, move into the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). This is a 36-month period where your SSDI benefits may stop or resume based on whether you earn above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold. 

What Happens After the Trial Work Period? 

Once you use all nine TWP months, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). This is where things change: 

  • If you earn below the SGA level, you continue receiving SSDI. 
  • If you earn above the SGA level, your benefits may be suspended but not terminated. 
  • If your earnings drop again within the 36-month EPE, you can have benefits restarted without a new application through Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). 

Can I Qualify for a Trial Work Period If I Haven't Applied for Disability Yet? 

No. The Trial Work Period only applies after you’ve been approved for SSDI. However, if you’re thinking about applying for disability, it’s smart to plan ahead. Getting support from a trusted Employment Network like DSA can help you understand: 

  • Whether you meet SSA’s definition of disability 
  • How long the application and appeal process might take 
  • How to structure your return-to-work plan in the future using programs like Ticket to Work 

Tips to Maximize Your Benefits with the Trial Work Period 

If you’re already approved for SSDI and ready to explore employment again, here’s how to get the most from your Trial Work Period: 

  1. Track your earnings closely. Even one dollar above the monthly threshold will trigger a TWP month. Keep clear records of your wages and compare against SSA’s updated TWP earnings limit each year. 
  2. Report your work activity. Be proactive and notify SSA of your earnings, hours worked, and any changes in your job. Failing to report may result in overpayments that you’ll be required to repay. 
  3. Use the Ticket to Work program. We offer free career services through the Ticket to Work program, including resume assistance, interview coaching, and benefits counseling. Our support is designed to help you prepare for long-term success as you navigate your return to work. 
  4. Understand SGA limits and deductions. Even after your TWP, SSA may deduct certain work-related expenses when calculating your countable income. These are called Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) and can help keep your earnings under SGA. 
  5. Don’t fear losing benefits. The SSA’s return-to-work rules are designed to support you, not punish you. Even if your benefits stop due to work, they can be restarted quickly if your disability worsens within five years. 

Still Thinking About Applying for SSDI? 

If you’re considering disability benefits due to a medical condition, you don’t need to navigate the process alone. We can help: 

  • Understand the SSA’s medical criteria and evidence requirements 
  • Prepare and file your application or appeal 
  • Plan a future return-to-work strategy while protecting your benefits 

Call Us at 888‑689‑6760 or complete our online form to get help applying for disability or using your Ticket to Work to safely test your ability to work while protecting your benefits. 

Turn to Us for Help With Social Security Disability Benefits

If you can't earn a living due to a disability, we're able to determine your eligibility for SSDI or SSI, appeal a denied application, and help you earn income without losing your monthly benefits. Disability Services of America is a respected and SSA-approved Employment Network. Since 2013, we’ve assisted countless SSDI and SSI beneficiaries across the country in building a better life.

Complete our contact form or call us at 866-699-6630 get started for free.