4.1 Trial Work Period (TWP) Flashcards
“What is the purpose of the Trial Work Period (TWP)?”
Answer: “To allow SSDI beneficiaries to test their ability to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits.”
Explanation: “During the TWP, claimants can earn any amount without affecting their SSDI benefits as long as the work activity is reported.”
Source: CFR §404.1592.
“What are the earnings thresholds for the TWP in 2024?”
Answer: “$1,050 per month or more.”
Explanation: “Any month in which a claimant earns $1,050 or more counts toward the 9-month limit of the TWP.”
Source: SSA Red Book.
“Do the 9 months of the TWP need to be consecutive?”
Answer: “No, the 9 months can occur within a rolling 60-month period.”
Explanation: “This flexibility allows claimants to try working intermittently without immediately losing their benefits.”
Case Scenario: Kevin, an SSDI recipient, begins working part-time and earns $1,150 per month in January 2025. He continues to work at the same earnings level for the next 12 months.
Question: How many Trial Work Period (TWP) months has Kevin used?
Answer: Kevin has used 12 TWP months because his earnings exceed the TWP threshold of $1,050 in 2025.
Legal Explanation: The TWP allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work for up to 9 months without affecting benefits, provided their earnings exceed the TWP threshold ($1,050 in 2025). These months do not need to be consecutive but must occur within a rolling 60-month period.
Trial Work Period (TWP):
Up to 9 months of testing work ability without losing benefits.
2025 TWP threshold: $1,050/month.
Ticket to Work Program:
Encourages vocational training and employment without fear of losing benefits.
