Yes, it is possible to work while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Oregon — but there are strict rules you must follow. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has guidelines in place to allow recipients to attempt working without immediately losing their benefits.
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Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
The SSA uses the concept of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine if your work and income level disqualify you from receiving SSDI.
- For 2025, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (or $2,590 if you’re blind), the SSA may consider you able to perform substantial work and no longer eligible for SSDI.
- Income below the SGA level usually allows you to continue receiving benefits.
Trial Work Period (TWP)
SSDI recipients are allowed to test their ability to work through a Trial Work Period (TWP).
- You can work for up to 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) while still receiving full SSDI payments.
- Any month in which you earn more than $1,110 (for 2025) counts toward the TWP.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After the TWP, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility — a 36-month window where you can continue receiving SSDI for any month your earnings are below the SGA limit.
- If your income exceeds the SGA during any month, you won’t get a benefit that month.
- If your income falls below SGA again, your benefits may restart without a new application.
Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)
Certain costs related to your disability (like specialized equipment or transportation) may be deducted from your earnings, helping keep you below the SGA limit and still eligible for SSDI.
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
Understanding how much you can earn without losing SSDI benefits can be tricky. At Hogan Smith, we help Oregon residents:
- Calculate safe work income levels
- Navigate SSA rules on work and disability
- Report earnings properly to avoid overpayments
- Explore vocational support options
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Thinking about working while on SSDI in Oregon? Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation to make sure you protect your benefits while exploring your ability to work.
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