If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Rhode Island, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to work part-time while keeping your benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does allow some work activity under certain limits, but strict rules apply. Knowing these rules can help you avoid putting your benefits at risk.
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Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
The SSA uses Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine whether your work is too significant to qualify as disabled. In 2025, the monthly SGA limit is:
- $1,550 per month for most applicants
- $2,590 per month if you are blind
If your earnings are below these thresholds, you may still qualify for SSDI even if you work part-time.
Trial Work Period (TWP)
SSDI recipients are given a Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows them to test working without losing benefits. Key points include:
- You can work for 9 trial months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 60-month period
- A trial month counts if you earn over $1,110 (2025 figure)
- You continue receiving full SSDI benefits during this time, no matter how much you earn
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After the trial work period ends, you enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During this time:
- You will receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below the SGA limit
- If you exceed the SGA limit, your benefits may be suspended for that month
Rhode Island Part-Time Work Considerations
For Rhode Island SSDI recipients, part-time work is possible but must be carefully managed:
- Stay under the SGA limit to avoid benefit termination
- Report all earnings to SSA immediately to prevent overpayments
- Keep medical documentation proving your disability still limits full-time employment
- Consult with a disability lawyer if you are unsure how your part-time work may affect benefits
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Working part-time while on SSDI can be tricky, and mistakes can put your benefits at risk. Hogan Smith’s Rhode Island disability lawyers can guide you through the rules by:
- Explaining SSA work incentives like TWP and EPE
- Reviewing your part-time work plans to ensure compliance with income limits
- Helping you report earnings correctly to the SSA
- Protecting your benefits if the SSA challenges your eligibility
- Offering legal representation if an appeal becomes necessary
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Balancing part-time work with SSDI benefits is not always straightforward, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Hogan Smith, we understand the SSA’s rules and know how to protect your rights while helping you explore work opportunities.

If you are receiving SSDI in Rhode Island and want to know how part-time work could impact your case, contact us today for a free consultation. Our dedicated disability attorneys will review your situation, explain your options, and guide you step by step so you can make informed decisions without risking your benefits.
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