Can you work part-time on SSDI in Arizona?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 05/28/2025


Yes, you can work part-time while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Arizona, but there are strict limits and guidelines you need to follow. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows some work under certain conditions—mainly as long as your earnings don’t exceed specific thresholds and your disability still prevents full-time work.

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Understanding SSDI Work Rules

If you're on SSDI and want to return to work—even on a part-time basis—you must be aware of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits. This is the SSA’s way of deciding whether your work activity disqualifies you from benefits.


Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Threshold

  • In most cases, if you earn more than a certain monthly amount, the SSA considers you capable of working at a "substantial" level.
  • If your income exceeds that threshold, your SSDI benefits may stop.


Trial Work Period (TWP)

  • SSDI allows a Trial Work Period, where you can test your ability to work for up to 9 months within a 60-month window.
  • During the TWP, you can earn more than the SGA limit without losing your benefits.
  • After this period ends, your case will be reviewed to see if your work shows you are no longer disabled.


Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

  • After your trial work period, you enter a 36-month window where benefits may continue for any month in which your earnings fall below the SGA limit.
  • If you go over the limit, benefits are paused but can restart if your income drops again—without needing to reapply.


Other Factors to Consider
  • Part-Time Hours: The number of hours you work matters, but the SSA focuses more on how much you earn, not how much you work.
  • Type of Work: If your job shows you're capable of certain tasks, the SSA might reevaluate your disability status—even if you’re earning under the SGA.
  • Self-Employment: Running a small business or freelance work is also evaluated but using different rules—based on time spent and value of services.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we understand how important it is to protect your benefits while trying to earn a living. We help Arizona residents:


  • Understand SSDI rules about part-time work.
  • Determine if part-time work will affect their benefits.
  • Keep SSA paperwork up to date to avoid benefit disruptions.
  • Appeal SSA decisions if benefits are reduced or stopped.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

Thinking about working part-time while on SSDI in Arizona? Let Hogan Smith help you make informed decisions and keep your benefits protected. Call now for a free consultation and get peace of mind before you clock in.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

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