Yes, but you should be careful not to perform what SSA defines as Substantial Gainful Activity, called SGA. In 2024, SGA is $1,550. If a person is performing SGA, they cannot receive social security disability insurance benefits unless an exception applies.
Some exceptions include:
- subsidized work,
- if an individual has impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs) that reduce their earnings below SGA such as assistive devices, transportation, and even medication if it enables you to work, and
- an unsuccessful attempt to return to work (UWA). After a person is approved for benefits, they also have the opportunity to use a trial work period to test their ability to earn for up to 9 months during a 60 month period.