SSDI Work Phases: Extended Period of Eligibility

Did you know working can impact your eligibility for disability benefits like SSDI? But what exactly happens to your benefit as you work can be complicated. This article is the second our series explaining what to expect when you start working and receive SSDI. Keep reading to learn more!

SSDI has three work phases: the Trial Work Period (TWP), Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), and Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). Beneficiaries move through each phase as they work. This article focuses on the second phase, the Extended Period of Eligibility. Please keep in mind that the information in this article only applies to SSDI. If you receive SSI, the rules are different.

Entering the Extended Period of Eligibility

The Extended Period of Eligibility begins the month immediately following your ninth Trial Work Period month and lasts 3 years. Unlike the Trial Work Period where trial work period months do not have to be consecutive, the Extended Period of Eligibility will always be the three years following your final Trial Work Period month regardless of if you are working or not. When in the Extended Period of Eligibility, beneficiaries are eligible for their SSDI check any month they earn below Substantial Gainful Activity. Beneficiaries are not eligible for SSDI any month they earn above Substantial Gainful Activity.

Substantial Gainful Activity

Substantial Gainful Activity refers to a level of work that is both significant and done for pay. In 2026, Substantial Gainful Activity means earning at least $1,690 per month from work. If you are blind, Substantial Gainful Activity means earning at least $2,830 per month from work.

The Grace Period

The first month you earn above Substantial Gainful Activity after your Trial Work Period, you will still receive your SSDI check, but you enter a three-month Grace Period and use your first Grace Period month. You will also receive your SSDI check for the following two months no matter how much you earn.

Reporting Wages

Regardless of how much you earn, it’s a good idea to always report your wages to Social Security when in the Extended Period of Eligibility. Social Security will use the earnings you report to determine when your Trial Work Period ends and Extended Period of Eligibility begins. They will also determine if you worked above or below Substantial Gainful Activity each month and are owed a payment during the Extended Period of Eligibility. If you don’t report your wages, you may end up with an overpayment.

If you need help understanding what will happen to your benefits when you start working, a Certified Benefits Planner at Northwest Access Fund can help!