Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

When evaluating disability claims, the SSA uses a standard called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to decide if your work activity is too significant to be considered disabled.

• In 2024, the SGA limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals.
• If you earn more than this amount (before taxes), your claim will likely be denied—because the SSA assumes you're capable of substantial work.

If you're working part-time and earning below the SGA limit, you can still be eligible for disability benefits.

Working Part-Time While Applying for SSDI

For SSDI, you must prove that your medical condition prevents you from working full-time or engaging in substantial gainful activity. Working part-time:

• Is allowed, as long as your earnings stay under the SGA limit
• Can be used to demonstrate that you’re trying to work despite your disability
• May require you to show that your condition still severely limits your ability to perform work consistently

The SSA will carefully review your hours, job duties, and wages to decide if your part-time work contradicts your disability claim.

Working Part-Time While Applying for SSI

Since SSI is a need-based program, your income and resources play a major role. Working part-time is allowed, but:

• Your earnings may reduce your SSI payment
• If your income or assets exceed certain limits, your eligibility could be affected
• The SSA will subtract some of your income when calculating your monthly benefit, but not all of it

You must still meet the medical definition of disability, just like with SSDI.

Tips for Applying While Working Part-Time

• Keep detailed records of your hours, duties, and income
• Be honest about your work activity when filling out your application
• Provide thorough medical documentation showing how your condition limits your ability to work full-time
• Understand that working—even part-time—can trigger closer scrutiny of your claim

If you’re working a few hours a week just to make ends meet, that doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. But you’ll need to carefully document how your medical condition still prevents you from holding full-time employment.