Understanding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold

On Behalf of | Jan 16, 2025 | Physical Impairments, Social Security Disability

A physical impairment might not hold you back from working, but it may impact your earning potential. This is why most people with disabilities seek extra support from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

However, your income may prevent you from receiving disability benefits because of a concept called Substantial Gainful Activity.

What is Substantial Gainful Activity?

The SSA uses SGA to decide whether a person qualifies for disability benefits. Essentially, SGA refers to the level of work and earnings a person is capable of.

By measuring SGA, the SSA can assess whether you are earning enough to support yourself. If you are earning more than the threshold, the SSA may not consider you disabled according to their definition of disability.

What is the SGA threshold?

The SGA threshold is the maximum income a person can earn to receive disability benefits. For 2025, the monthly amount for blind individuals is $2,700 and $1,620 for nonblind individuals.

However, there are considerations for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients. First is the trial work period, where you can try working for at least nine months without losing benefits. The months may be nonconsecutive but must be within a five-year rolling period.

After the trial work period, you have a 36-month period called the extended period of eligibility or EPE. You can still work and receive benefits, but you will not receive payment if your income exceeds the SGA threshold for any month.

What issues can arise?

The ability to work is a privilege, but it can make it difficult to earn a substantial income. It is ironic, but it is the reality for people who need both the benefits and their jobs. The SGA can lead to legal issues, such as:

  • Disputes over what counts as income for SGA purposes
  • The burden of proving whether work activity constitutes SGA
  • Determining the value of work when employment is subsidized
  • Unfair termination of benefits

If you want to continue earning an income, you should not fear losing your benefits. Consider speaking with an attorney who can help protect your rights and pursue the fair coverage you deserve.