Social Security allows limited work activity. For SSDI, you cannot engage in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). In 2024, SGA is defined as earning more than $1,690 per month for non-blind individuals or $2,830 per month for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts generally disqualifies you from benefits, though Social Security provides trial work periods allowing you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. SSI has stricter income limits since it’s needs-based. Social Security does offer work incentives, allowing disabled individuals to gradually return to work while maintaining benefits or Medicaid. We help clients understand these complex work rules and avoid inadvertently jeopardizing benefits.