T
The Daily Insight

Can a person on SSI work part time?

Author

Andrew Ramirez

Published Apr 04, 2026

En español | Yes, within strict limits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments will stop if you are engaged in what Social Security calls “substantial gainful activity.” SGA, as it’s known, is defined in 2021 as earning more than $1,310 a month (or $2,190 if you are blind).

Can you work if you collect SSI?

You can begin to work and continue to receive SSI benefits as long as your wages and other resources do not exceed the SSA’s income limit for SSI; however, your monthly benefit amount will be reduced in proportion to your income. The SSA will reduce your benefit by the amount of your countable income.

You can generally work part time while you apply for Social Security disability benefits as long as your earnings don’t exceed a certain amount set by Social Security each year. In addition to the amount of money you make, Social Security may look at the number of hours you’re able to work.

Is it possible to work while on Social Security disability?

Social Security’s work incentives and Ticket to Work programs can help you if you’re working or interested in working. Special rules make it possible for people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments to work and still receive monthly payments.

Do you get Social Security if you get SSI?

Many people who are eligible for SSI may also be entitled to Social Security benefits. In fact, the application for SSI is also an application for Social Security benefits. However, SSI and Social Security are different in many ways.

Can you work and collect Social Security at the same time?

Can You Work and Collect Social Security Benefits? Yes, you can work and collect Social Security benefits at the same time. However, if you are younger than your full retirement age, part of your Social Security payments may be temporarily withheld if you earn too much.

What happens to your Social Security benefits when you work?

Understand how money earned from a job in retirement could impact your Social Security benefits. 1 Consider Your Social Security Full Retirement Age. 2 The Social Security Earnings Limit Changes the Year You Turn 66. 3 Social Security Payments Are Only Withheld Temporarily. 4 Working Can Make Your Social Security Benefit Taxable. …