How Does The SSDI Trial Work Period Work?

If you’ve suffered injuries or other medical conditions, you may have had to apply for SSDI benefits during your recovery. But if you’ve received payments for a while, you might feel ready to start working again. In that case, SSDI has created a trial work period to help recipients gradually get back into the workforce while still receiving regular payments. Learn more about how the process works and how it can benefit you.

What Is An SSDI Trial Work Period?

Also known as a TWP, the SSA created this provision to encourage applicants to ease back into the workforce. After your initial reinstatement period (IRP), a TWP gives the recipient nine non-consecutive months within 60 months (5 years) to let you try different job positions. You’ll still receive your SSDI payments during this time and must report any income you make.

The Security Administration (SSA) measures a TWP month based on how much you’ve made. If you had a monthly income of over $970 in 2022, that month would be part of your TWP. For self-employed workers, working 80 hours a month or making over the $970 threshold will trigger the TWP.

Can You Apply To More Than One TWP?

In most cases, you will only be eligible for one trial work period every five years. However, there are two ways to become qualified for another TWP.

The first possibility is if you only used part of the nine months during your first five years collecting SSDI payments. Once the five-year mark passes, the TWP process will start over. The second way is if the SSA reinstated your benefits within three years after your initial TWP ended. Once you start receiving benefits again, you’ll also be eligible for a new TWP. 

What Happens After Your Work Period Ends?

After the TWP ends, you’ll transition into an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) for the next 36 months. This provision lets you collect SSDI payments if your income falls under the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold of $1,350 in 2022. If you receive less than this amount, you’ll be eligible to receive an SSDI payment that month until your EPE ends.

After that, you can only continue receiving payments if you never exceeded the minimum SGA threshold during the 36-month period. Even one income above the SGA’s minimum requirements will result in your disability payment stopping.

Our Attorneys Can Help You Win Your SSDI Claim

If you’ve been hesitant to find work out of fear that your benefits would automatically get revoked, you have nothing to worry about. SSDI is there to help you recover from your injuries or health conditions and get back on your feet. The SSA understands that it’s a gradual process, so it gives beneficiaries many opportunities to find a job position that suits them before their benefits expire.

Our social security disability attorneys have guided thousands of clients through the SSDI application process and will help you get the benefits you’re entitled to. Please call us at  877-693-7686 or contact us using our online form to schedule a free initial consultation today.