Trial Work Period (TWP)

The Trial Work Period lets you test your ability to work for up to nine months while still receiving full SSDI benefits, no matter how much you earn.

• How It Works: Each month you earn over a set threshold (e.g., $1,110 in 2025) counts as a trial work month.
• What to Know: These months don’t need to be consecutive. After nine total trial work months within a 60-month period, your Trial Work Period ends.
• Massachusetts Tip: Job opportunities with flexible accommodations are increasingly available for SSDI recipients exploring the TWP.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

After your Trial Work Period, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility, a 36-month window where you can still receive benefits in any month your earnings are below Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits.

• SGA Limit (2025): $1,550 per month for most individuals, or $2,590 if you’re blind.
• Important: If your income goes over the SGA limit during this period, your benefits may stop—but they can restart if your income drops again.

Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)

If your benefits stop because you return to work and earn above the SGA limit, but you later become unable to work again due to your condition, you can request Expedited Reinstatement.

• How It Works: You can get your SSDI benefits reinstated without starting over with a new application.
• Eligibility: You must request reinstatement within five years of when your benefits stopped.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs)

You may deduct the cost of disability-related expenses that help you work when calculating your earnings.

• Examples: Assistive devices, transportation costs, or medications that enable you to perform your job.
• Impact: These deductions can help you stay under the SGA limit and continue receiving benefits.

Ticket to Work Program

The SSA’s Ticket to Work program connects SSDI recipients with employment services such as vocational training, job placement, and career counseling.

• Free and Voluntary: You’re not required to participate, and you don’t risk losing benefits just by joining.
• Massachusetts Resources: Local Employment Networks (ENs) and Vocational Rehabilitation agencies are available to support your job search.