If you're wondering, "Can you work part-time while on SSDI in Kentucky?," the answer is generally yes, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages it through special Work Incentives. The key program is the Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work for nine months (not necessarily in a row) over five years. During your TWP, you can earn any amount of income and still receive your full SSDI benefit, provided you report your earnings and still meet the medical definition of disability. After the TWP, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit applies—if your earnings go over the limit (which changes yearly, consult the SSA for the current amount), your benefits may stop, though a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility provides a safety net. Navigating these rules is complex, but at Hogan Smith, we're here to help you understand your options and ensure you can work without risking your essential benefits.
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1. Understand SSDI Work Rules in Kentucky
If you're receiving SSDI and thinking about working part-time, it's crucial to know the rules to avoid jeopardizing your benefits:
- Trial Work Period (TWP): You can work for up to 9 months without losing benefits, as long as you earn less than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit.
- SGA Limit: In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470/month. If you earn more than this, your SSDI benefits may be affected.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If your earnings exceed the SGA limit for more than 9 months, your benefits could be terminated.
2. Keep Track of Your Earnings
Managing your earnings is key to staying compliant with SSDI rules:
- Work and Report Earnings: You are required to report your income to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Failure to do so could result in overpayments or loss of benefits.
- Use the SSDI Work Incentives: Programs like the Ticket to Work can help you gradually transition back into full-time work while keeping your benefits intact.
3. Check for Work Incentives
The SSA offers several incentives to help you return to work without immediately losing your benefits:
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): You may be able to deduct certain expenses related to your disability that help you work (e.g., medical devices, transportation).
- Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS): This allows you to set aside income and resources for work-related expenses, which could help you return to full-time employment.
4. Understand Your Trial Work Period (TWP)
During your TWP, you can work and earn any amount without affecting your SSDI benefits:
- 9-month period: You can work as much as you want, earn any income, and still receive your SSDI benefits.
- After the TWP: If you continue to earn above the SGA level, your benefits may stop, but you still have options for returning to SSDI if needed.
5. Be Aware of the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your TWP ends, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):
- EPE duration: The EPE lasts for 36 months. During this time, if your earnings are below the SGA limit, you can still receive benefits.
- Automatic reactivation: If your earnings drop back below the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits can be reactivated without a new application.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know that wondering about working part-time while receiving SSDI in Kentucky can be confusing, as you don't want to risk your benefits. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the SSA's Work Incentives and help you maintain your financial security:

- Understand the Trial Work Period (TWP): Learn about the nine-month window where you can earn any amount without affecting your SSDI payment.
- Monitor Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): Know the yearly income limit (SGA) that applies after your TWP and how exceeding it affects your benefit status.
- Utilize the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): Discover the 36-month safety net after your TWP where your benefits can be reinstated if your earnings fall below SGA.
- Get Expert Advice: Our team will help you report your earnings correctly and ensure compliance with all SSA rules so you can work safely while protecting your benefits.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If your initial claim was denied, Hogan Smith is ready to help you appeal a denied SSDI claim in Kentucky. Contact us for a free, no-commitment consultation to discuss your next steps.
We will immediately help you file a Request for Reconsideration and navigate the subsequent levels of appeal, including the crucial Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing. Our expert team will identify why your original claim was denied, help you gather new and stronger medical evidence, and prepare you thoroughly to present your case.

With our extensive experience, you’ll have a higher chance of a successful appeal—allowing you to focus on your health while we fiercely advocate for the disability benefits you deserve..
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