Understanding Work and SSDI Rules

SSDI is meant for individuals who cannot work full-time due to a disability. However, the SSA recognizes that some people may try to return to work part-time or test their ability to work. To balance this, the SSA has rules in place, including Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits and trial work programs.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) in Maine

• In 2025, the SGA monthly limit is $1,550 for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals.
• If you consistently earn more than this amount, the SSA may consider you no longer disabled and could stop your benefits.
• Earnings below the SGA limit typically allow you to keep receiving benefits.

The Trial Work Period (TWP)

The SSA provides a Trial Work Period to encourage SSDI recipients to test their ability to return to work:

• You can work for 9 trial months within a rolling 60-month period, regardless of how much you earn.
• A month counts as a trial month if you earn more than $1,110 in 2025.
• During the TWP, you continue receiving your full SSDI benefits even if your income is high.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

After the trial work period, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility. During this time:

• You can receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA limit.
• If you earn above SGA, you won’t receive benefits for that month.
• If your earnings later drop below SGA, your benefits can restart without a new application.

Work Incentives in Maine

The SSA also offers special work incentives, such as:

• Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Costs related to your disability that allow you to work (like assistive devices, special transportation, or medical treatment) can be deducted from your income when SSA calculates SGA.
• Continuation of Medicare Coverage: Even if SSDI payments stop because of work, you may still keep your Medicare benefits for several years.