Can You Work Part-Time While Receiving Social Security Disability In Florida?
If you get Social Security disability benefits in Florida, you may wonder whether you can work part-time without risking your monthly payments. The short answer is yes, but there are strict rules you must follow.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages people to return to work if they can. However, the agency also closely monitors how much income you earn while receiving benefits. The primary focus is on what they call “substantial gainful activity”, or SGA. Our Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer explains how to avoid unintentionally putting your benefits at risk.
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and Work Limits for Florida Social Security Disability Recipients
Under SSA guidelines, substantial gainful activity is work that brings in more than a certain monthly amount and shows the ability to engage in competitive employment. If you exceed this monthly earnings limit, SSA may decide that you are no longer disabled, even if you’re only working part-time. Here’s what you need to know about SGA:
- In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,550/month for non-blind individuals and $2,590/month for blind individuals (these amounts change yearly).
- Earning more than the SGA limit may trigger a review and possible termination of benefits.
- SSA looks at gross income, not net (pre-tax earnings count toward the limit).
- Work must be “substantial” and not sheltered, as heavily accommodated roles may be viewed differently.
SSA also tracks your ability to perform tasks, not just your paycheck. If your work suggests you can work full-time, your benefits could be at risk, even if you stay below the income threshold.
How to Work Part-Time Without Losing Social Security Disability Benefits In Florida
SSA offers programs that let you test your ability to work without immediately losing your benefits. These include the Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). Understanding and following program rules can help you supplement your income safely. Follow these steps if you want to work part-time:
- Track your income carefully and stay below the SGA limit if you’re not using a trial work period.
- Report any work activity to SSA immediately, including changes in hours or pay.
- Keep documentation of your duties, schedule, and any workplace accommodations.
- Understand your trial work period, which allows you to earn more than the SGA limit for 9 months without losing benefits.
- Always report part-time work honestly. Failing to do so can result in overpayments or penalties.
- If the SSA questions your eligibility, contact an experienced disability lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
To Protect Your Benefits, Contact Our Experienced Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer
Working part-time while receiving SSDI benefits in Florida is possible, but it comes with rules that can be confusing or easy to overlook. At Farrell Disability Law, we help clients in Jacksonville and Orlando make informed decisions about part-time work and protect their disability benefits. To find out how to work safely while staying compliant with SSA regulations, contact our office and schedule a consultation with our experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer.
Sources:
ssa.gov/oact/cola/sga.html
ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf
