Can I work while getting SSI?
Yes, you can work while getting SSI (Supplemental Security Income). Some of your earnings won't count against your benefits because of special rules.
- Published Sep 21, 2026
- Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
- 2 min read
Yes, you can work while getting SSI
You are allowed to work while receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income). The Social Security Administration has special rules that let you keep some of your earnings without losing benefits.
How the earnings rule works
Not all of your work earnings count against your SSI benefits. Here's what happens:
- Your first [VERIFY: amount per month] in earnings each month doesn't count.
- After that, SSI reduces your benefit by $1 for every $2 you earn.
- This means you can earn money and still receive some SSI payment.
Work incentives and exceptions
The Social Security Administration offers several programs to help people receiving SSI work and earn more:
- Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) - You can set aside income and resources to reach a work goal while keeping your SSI.
- Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE) - Costs directly related to your disability don't count as income.
- Subsidies and unimpaired earnings - Help you get paid more than you can actually produce.
- Blind work expenses - If you are blind, certain work-related costs don't count.
What to do next
Contact the Social Security Administration before you start working or change your job. Tell them about your job and earnings right away. This helps them calculate your benefits correctly.
You can also ask about work incentives when you call. Social Security staff can explain which programs might help you earn more while keeping your benefits.
Applying for SSI and any work incentive programs is free. Only the Social Security Administration decides if you qualify.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I earn on SSI before losing benefits?
Some earnings don't count against your benefits because of the SSI earned income exclusion. After that, your benefit reduces by $1 for every $2 earned. Contact Social Security to understand exactly how your earnings will affect your payment.
Do I have to report my job to Social Security?
Yes. Report any job, earnings, or change in work situation to Social Security right away. This helps them calculate your benefits correctly and prevents problems later.
Can I work part-time while on SSI?
Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSI. Part-time earnings may count against your benefits, but special rules and work incentive programs can help you keep more of your payment. Ask Social Security about programs like PASS (Plan to Achieve Self-Support).
Programs in this article
Official sources
Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.
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Program rules & income limits
Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.
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