Many people who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Iowa wonder if they can still work part-time without losing their benefits. The good news is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) does allow limited work activity, but there are strict income and hour rules that must be followed. Understanding these rules is important to avoid accidentally jeopardizing your monthly benefits.
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1. The Basics: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
The SSA uses the concept of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine whether someone is “too capable” of working to qualify for disability benefits.
- In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,550 per month (before taxes).
- For individuals who are legally blind, the SGA limit is $2,590 per month.
This means you can work part-time and earn up to these limits while still receiving SSDI benefits. If you consistently earn more than the SGA limit, the SSA may determine you are no longer disabled under their rules.
2. The Trial Work Period (TWP)
If you want to test your ability to work, the SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP).
- You can earn more than the SGA limit during this period without immediately losing your benefits.
- In 2025, any month you earn over $1,110 counts as a trial work month.
- You can use up to 9 trial work months within a rolling 60-month period.
This program allows you to attempt returning to work while maintaining your SSDI eligibility.
3. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your trial work period, the SSA provides a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility.
- During the EPE, you can still receive SSDI benefits for any month where your income falls below the SGA limit.
- If your earnings go above SGA, you won’t receive benefits for that month—but your eligibility remains open in case your income drops again.
This flexibility is especially helpful for individuals in Iowa who may only be able to work part-time or whose conditions make it difficult to maintain consistent employment.
4. Iowa-Specific Considerations
In Iowa, many part-time jobs are available in retail, food service, healthcare support, and seasonal industries. These can provide supplemental income, but it’s important to:
- Track your earnings carefully each month.
- Report all work activity to the SSA to avoid overpayments.
- Consider whether your condition allows you to sustain even part-time work without worsening your health.
5. Key Takeaways for Part-Time Work on SSDI in Iowa
- Yes, you can work part-time while on SSDI in Iowa.
- Your monthly income must stay below the SGA limit to keep benefits long-term.
- Trial Work Period and Extended Eligibility rules provide safety nets.
- Always keep accurate records and report earnings to the SSA.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know many Iowans rely on part-time income while receiving SSDI benefits. But the rules can be confusing, and even small mistakes in reporting earnings may risk your eligibility.
Our team can help by:
- Explaining SSA work rules and how they apply to your unique situation.
- Advising you on income tracking so you don’t accidentally cross the SGA threshold.
- Communicating with the SSA on your behalf to report work activity correctly.
- Helping you navigate overpayment notices or benefit disputes if they arise.
- Guiding you through appeals if your benefits are reduced or terminated unfairly.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re wondering “Can I work part-time while on SSDI in Iowa?”, the answer is yes—but only if you follow the SSA’s rules carefully. At Hogan Smith, we can help you understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and protect the benefits you’ve earned.

Call us today for a free consultation and let our team guide you through the SSDI system with confidence.
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