Last Updated September 19, 2026
If average countable monthly earnings are over SGA, SSA generally finds that the work is substantial gainful activity. That can stop a disability claim at step one, or end benefits later. The 2026 amounts are $1,690 a month (non-blind) and $2,830 (statutorily blind). Blind SGA does not apply to SSI.
This checker compares gross monthly earnings to those published figures. It does not subtract impairment-related work expenses, employer subsidies, or special conditions. Self-employment uses a different test.
The trial work period — $1,210 a month in 2026 — is a different rule for people already on SSDI. It is not this calculator.
Interactive tool
Data last verified: 2026-09-19. Calculation version 2026.09.1.
How the calculation works
Pick the year, whether statutory blindness rules may apply, and monthly gross earnings. The tool loads the SSA chart amount for that year.
What this result does not tell you
It does not decide disability. Work below SGA can still show you can do other work at later steps. Work above SGA on paper can still be not SGA after IRWE or an unsuccessful work attempt.
Relevant legal rules
SGA amounts are published by SSA’s Office of the Chief Actuary and in the Red Book. They usually change with the national average wage index.
Example
Non-blind gross earnings of $1,700 in 2026 are above $1,690. That is a gross comparison only. $200 of unreimbursed impairment-related work expenses, if SSA allows them, would change countable earnings.
What you may want to do next
If you are working and applying, keep paystubs. Talk with the disability team before quitting a job because of a website number. See also receiving disability while working.
How Brock & Stout can help
We help people explain work activity to SSA, including unsuccessful attempts and special conditions. We cannot promise SSA will disregard earnings.
Related resources
- Do you qualify? — Do you qualify?
Five-step evaluation in plain English.
- SSDI vs SSI — SSDI vs SSI
Where SGA sits among the other rules.
- Working while applying — Working while applying
Blog guide to keep-both with this tool.
FAQs
Gross earnings generally count. Average monthly earnings can matter for SGA. Do not hide overtime from SSA or from us.
No. SSA states that SGA for the blind does not apply to SSI.
Have questions about SSDI or SSI?
We can review work history, medical treatment, and where you are in the process. We cannot promise an approval.