What Is Substantial Gainful Activity in SSDI Cases?

 Posted on February 22, 2026 in Social Security Disability

Substantial gainful activity (SGA) is the income level the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to decide whether you are disabled enough to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If you earn more than the SGA limit, SSA may decide that you are able to work and deny your disability claim.

According to the Social Security Administration, the monthly SGA limit for 2026 is $1,690 for most individuals and $2,830 for people who are blind. This rule plays a central role in SSDI decisions. If you are applying for SSDI in 2026, our Dallas, TX social security disability insurance lawyers can help you understand how SGA affects your eligibility.

What Does Substantial Gainful Activity Mean?

Substantial gainful activity refers to work that involves significant physical or mental duties and provides income above a certain level.

The Social Security Administration defines SGA under 20 C.F.R. § 404.1572. According to this regulation, work is considered substantial if it involves meaningful tasks, and it is considered gainful if it is done for pay or profit.

SSA uses SGA to determine whether someone can still work. If your income exceeds the limit, SSA may conclude that you are not disabled under its rules.

Why Does SGA Matter in SSDI Cases?

SGA is one of the first factors SSA considers when reviewing SSDI applications. If you are working and earning above the SGA limit, SSA may deny your claim without reviewing your medical condition.

This rule exists because SSDI benefits are intended for individuals who cannot maintain substantial employment due to disability. Even if you have a serious medical condition, earning more than the SGA amount can affect your eligibility.

How Does SSA Calculate Substantial Gainful Activity?

SSA mainly looks at your monthly earnings to determine whether your work qualifies as substantial gainful activity.

SSA may review:

• Your gross monthly income
• Your work activity and job duties
• Whether your employer made special accommodations

SSA may also consider whether your income reflects your true ability to work. In some cases, it may adjust the amount it counts based on certain factors.

Can You Still Qualify for SSDI if You Are Working?

Yes, it is possible to qualify for SSDI while working, depending on your income level and situation. If your earnings remain below the SGA limit, SSA may still consider you disabled. Some individuals work part-time or have limited duties due to their condition.

Under 20 C.F.R. § 404.1574, SSA evaluates earnings and work activity to determine whether they qualify as substantial gainful activity. Work attempts that last only a short time may also be treated differently under SSA rules. Each case depends on the individual circumstances.

What Happens if You Earn More Than the SGA Limit?

If your income exceeds the SGA limit, SSA may deny your claim or stop your benefits. SSA may determine that your ability to earn income shows you are capable of substantial work.

However, there are exceptions. SSA may consider whether your work was temporary, whether you required assistance, or whether your condition prevented you from maintaining employment long-term.

SSA reviews the full situation before making a decision.

How Can a Texas SSDI Attorney Help With an SSDI Claim?

SSDI applications must meet specific medical and income standards. Even small errors or missing information can slow down the process or result in a denial.

An attorney can evaluate your earnings, explain how substantial gainful activity applies to your situation, and help organize the information needed for your claim. This helps make sure your application follows Social Security Administration guidelines.

Having legal guidance can make the process smoother and help strengthen your claim for benefits.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Collin County, TX SSDI Attorneys

If you have questions about substantial gainful activity or SSDI eligibility, The Law Offices of Coats & Todd can help. Our attorneys help clients understand their rights and pursue disability benefits. They have over 60 years of collective legal experience and have achieved numerous awards. They’re also active members and have held leadership positions in several organizations, including the National Association of Social Security Claimants Representatives and the Dallas Association of Social Security Claimants Attorneys.

Call 972-671-9922 to schedule a free consultation with our Dallas, TX social security disability insurance lawyers and learn how to protect your right to disability benefits. Se habla Español.