What counts as SGA?
Updated September 30, 2026 · General information, not legal advice
"SGA" stands for substantial gainful activity. For people on SSDI, it's the monthly earnings level Social Security uses to decide whether a month's work is "substantial".
The 2026 amounts
| 2025 | 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Most people | $1,620 a month | $1,690 a month |
| People who are blind | $2,700 a month | $2,830 a month |
When SGA matters
- During your 9 trial months, it doesn't: your SSDI check is paid no matter what you earn. (Trial months use a lower amount, $1,210 in 2026.)
- After your trial months, earning over SGA can stop your check for that month, after any grace months.
- After the 36-month safety net, a month over SGA can end SSDI.
SGA is mainly an SSDI rule for people already getting benefits. SSI works differently: pay lowers your SSI check bit by bit instead.
What counts toward SGA
For people who work for an employer, Social Security starts with your gross earnings (before taxes) for work done in the month. Then some things can be taken off:
Work expenses because of your disability (IRWE)
Things you pay for yourself so you can work, because of your condition, like special transportation, a job coach, or medical items. Keep receipts.
Subsidies and special conditions
If you get more help at work than other employees (extra supervision, a job coach paid by someone else, fewer duties for the same pay), part of your pay may not count. Your employer may need to fill out a form.
Unsuccessful work attempts
Work lasting 6 months or less, after a break of at least 30 days, that ended or fell below SGA because of your condition (or because special help at work was taken away) may not count against you. This doesn't apply to trial months.
Self-employed? SGA works differently. Social Security looks at your net earnings and also at how much you do in the business and what it's worth. A benefits counselor can help you figure it out.
Uneven pay
If your pay goes up and down, Social Security can sometimes average your earnings over a few months. A month just under the limit could still count, and one just over might not. When you're close, ask a benefits counselor.
Getting help
- Free benefits counseling (WIPA): 1-866-968-7842
- Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
Check a month against the limit
- Social Security, Substantial Gainful Activity amounts
- Social Security Red Book, SSDI employment supports
- Social Security, What's new in 2026
- 20 CFR 404.1574 (employees) and 404.1575 (self-employment)