What is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and how does it affect my claim?

SGA stands for Substantial Gainful Activity. It is the first test SSA applies when you file for SSDI or SSI disability benefits. If you are earning above SGA right now, SSA will deny your claim without even looking at your medical records.

2026 SGA thresholds:

• Non-blind claimants: $1,620 per month
• Blind claimants: $2,700 per month

These numbers increase most years with the national average wage index. SSA looks at gross wages, not take-home pay. Self-employment income is evaluated differently — SSA considers the value of your work services, not just profit.

SGA also applies after you are approved. Once your Trial Work Period (TWP) ends — nine months of work in a 60-month window — SSA will check whether your earnings exceed SGA. If they do, your benefits can be suspended or terminated.

Part-time work below SGA is generally allowed and can even strengthen your claim by showing you are trying to work but cannot sustain full employment. See our FAQ on working part-time on SSDI for details.

If you are unsure whether your income will affect your claim, contact our office before filing. We serve New York clients in English and Spanish — hablamos español.