The rise of remote work has transformed the employment landscape, offering flexibility and new opportunities for many. However, for individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, engaging in remote work can have significant implications. Understanding how remote employment affects SSDI benefits is crucial to ensure compliance with Social Security Administration (SSA) regulations and to maintain eligibility.

Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

According to SSA, disability is the inability to engage in a substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable mental or physical impairment. As of 2025, the SGA threshold is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 per month for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may indicate to the SSA that an individual is capable of substantial work, potentially jeopardizing SSDI benefits.

Remote Work and Income Monitoring

Remote work often provides flexible hours and the convenience of working from home, which can be appealing to individuals with disabilities. However, it's essential to monitor income carefully. Even if work is performed remotely, earnings that exceed the SGA threshold can trigger a review of SSDI eligibility. The SSA evaluates all income sources, regardless of the work setting, to determine whether an individual engages in SGA.

Trial Work Period (TWP)

The SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) to encourage beneficiaries to attempt returning to work without immediately losing benefits. During the TWP, individuals can work for nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a rolling 60-month period, earning any amount without affecting their SSDI benefits. In 2025, a month counts toward the TWP if earnings exceed $1,050. After the TWP, if earnings continue above the SGA level, benefits may cease following a three-month grace period.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

Following the TWP, the SSA provides a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). During the EPE, if earnings fall below the SGA threshold in any month, SSDI benefits can be reinstated without a new application. However, benefits are suspended in months when earnings exceed the SGA limit. Consistently earning above the SGA level after the EPE can lead to benefit termination.

Self-Employment Considerations

Many remote work opportunities involve self-employment, which the SSA assesses differently. Instead of solely considering income, the SSA evaluates factors such as time invested in the business, responsibilities, and profitability. Even if net earnings are below the SGA threshold, significant involvement in self-employment activities can suggest the capacity for SGA, potentially affecting SSDI eligibility.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs)

Beneficiaries can deduct impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs) from their earnings when determining SGA. IRWEs are costs for items or services needed to work due to a disability, such as specialized equipment, therapy, or personal assistance. Deducting IRWEs can help keep countable earnings below the SGA threshold, preserving SSDI benefits.

Consulting a Social Security Disability Attorney 

Navigating the complexities of SSDI regulations while considering remote work can be challenging. Consulting with a knowledgeable Tampa Social Security Disability attorney can provide personalized guidance. An experienced attorney can help assess how potential earnings from remote work may impact benefits, assist in reporting income accurately, and advise on effectively utilizing provisions like the TWP and IRWEs.

Conclusion

Engaging in remote work offers flexibility and the potential for financial independence for individuals receiving SSDI benefits. However, it's imperative to understand how earnings affect benefit eligibility. By staying informed about SSA regulations, carefully monitoring income, and seeking professional advice from a Social Security lawyer in Tampa, beneficiaries can make informed decisions that align with their financial and health needs.