Trial Work Period Explained: 9 Months to Test Working
TL;DR: The SSDI trial work period lets you test your ability to work for 9 months without losing benefits. In 2026, a trial work month is any month you earn over $1,110 or work 80+ self-employed hours. The 9 months can be spread over a 60-month window. After the trial work period, different rules apply. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79.
Trial Work Period Rules
| Detail | 2026 Rule |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 months (not necessarily consecutive) |
| Earnings trigger | $1,110/month |
| Self-employment trigger | 80 hours/month |
| Rolling window | 60 months |
| Benefits during TWP | Full SSDI payment continues |
| Earnings cap during TWP | None (earn any amount) |
How It Works
Once you are receiving SSDI, you can work and earn any amount during your trial work period without losing a single dollar of benefits. Each month you earn over $1,110 counts as a trial work month. After you use all 9 months within a 60-month rolling window, the trial work period ends.
After the Trial Work Period
After your 9 trial work months, you enter the 36-month extended period of eligibility (EPE). During the EPE:
- Months you earn above SGA ($1,620): no SSDI payment
- Months you earn below SGA: full SSDI payment
- After the 36-month EPE: any month above SGA permanently ends benefits (though expedited reinstatement may be available)
Reporting Requirements
You must report all work activity and earnings to SSA during and after the trial work period. Use your my Social Security account, the SSA mobile app, or call 1-800-772-1213.
Get Approved First
The trial work period only applies after SSDI approval. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79 by building SSA-compliant documents for your initial application.
Start your ClaimPath application today.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about trial work period explained: 9 months to test working?
TL;DR: The SSDI trial work period lets you test your ability to work for 9 months without losing benefits. In 2026, a trial work month is any month you earn over $1,110 or work 80+ self-employed hours. The 9 months can be spread over a 60-month window.
How It Works?
Once you are receiving SSDI, you can work and earn any amount during your trial work period without losing a single dollar of benefits. Each month you earn over $1,110 counts as a trial work month. After you use all 9 months within a 60-month rolling window, the trial work period ends.
What are the requirements for reporting requirements?
You must report all work activity and earnings to SSA during and after the trial work period. Use your my Social Security account, the SSA mobile app, or call 1-800-772-1213.
What should I know about get approved first?
The trial work period only applies after SSDI approval. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79 by building SSA-compliant documents for your initial application.