Working While Receiving SSDI in Oklahoma

If you receive SSDI, you can work on a limited basis thanks to the SSA’s Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) programs.

1. Trial Work Period (TWP):

• You’re allowed to test your ability to work for up to 9 months (not necessarily consecutive).
• In 2025, any month you earn more than $1,110 (subject to annual adjustment) counts as a TWP month.
• You’ll continue receiving your full SSDI benefits during this time, no matter how much you earn.

2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):

• After your TWP, you enter a 36-month safety net where you can continue to receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
• In 2025, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month (or $2,590 if you're blind).

3. Reporting Work Activity:

You must report all work activity to the SSA, including hours, pay, and job responsibilities. Failing to do so can lead to overpayments or even the termination of benefits.

Working While Receiving SSI in Oklahoma

SSI is a need-based program, so any income—including wages from work—can affect your benefit amount.

• The SSA excludes the first $85 of your earned income each month, but any income above that is counted and will reduce your SSI benefit.
• For every $2 you earn, your SSI check is reduced by about $1.
• You must report all changes in income to the SSA to avoid overpayments.

Can You Work Part-Time or Do Gig Work in Oklahoma?

Yes, part-time jobs and even freelance or gig work (like rideshare driving or online freelancing) are allowed under SSA guidelines, as long as your earnings stay within permitted limits.

However, even if your income is low, the SSA might consider:

• Number of hours worked
• Type of work performed
• Whether it suggests you're capable of full-time work

So it’s essential to track your hours and communicate clearly with the SSA.

Programs That Support Returning to Work

SSA offers incentive programs to help people return to the workforce without immediately losing their benefits:

• Ticket to Work Program: Provides free employment services and support while allowing you to keep benefits during the transition.
• Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Allows you to deduct the cost of certain disability-related items or services you need to work from your income calculation.