What Is Substantial Gainful Activity?

Substantial Gainful Activity is work that:

1. Involves significant duties — meaning you are performing meaningful tasks, whether physical or mental.
2. Generates income above a set monthly limit — this is the SGA earnings threshold, which changes yearly.

If you earn more than the SGA limit, the SSA generally considers you capable of working at a level that disqualifies you from receiving disability benefits.

The 2025 SGA Limits

For 2025, the SGA monthly limits are:

• $1,550 for non-blind individuals
• $2,590 for blind individuals

These amounts are gross income before taxes. If your earnings exceed these amounts, the SSA will likely determine that you are not disabled for SSDI purposes.

Work That May Still Be Considered SGA

The SSA evaluates both earnings and the nature of your work. Even part-time work may count as SGA if your earnings exceed the limit. In some cases, work done under special conditions — such as reduced duties or help from co-workers — may be evaluated differently.

Non-Work Income Does Not Count as SGA

It’s important to note that not all income counts toward SGA. Examples include:

• Investment income
• Gifts
• Public assistance benefits (other than SSDI/SSI)

Only income from actual work activity is considered when determining SGA.

Exceptions and Trial Work Periods

SSDI recipients may test their ability to work without losing benefits immediately through a Trial Work Period (TWP). During this time, you can earn more than the SGA limit and still receive benefits, but specific rules and timelines apply.