How Much Can You Earn While Receiving Social Security

Being disabled can be difficult in any number of ways, not the least of which is financially. If you are struggling with a condition that has caused you to be unable to work, you understandably want to do all you can to support yourself and those you love. If this is the case, you may be receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, and those benefits are probably an important source of financial support and stability. You may also be wondering if you can earn additional income in some way while receiving those benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the law together.

What is the Substantial Gainful Activity Limit?

The Social Security Administration uses the term “substantial gainful activity” to describe a particular level of work activity and earnings. As a general rule, those who consistently earn beyond the SGA limit may be at risk of having their disability benefits discontinued. The Social Security Administration considers work to be “substantial” if it involves engaging in significant physical or mental activities, or a combination of both. Work is considered to be “gainful” if it is performed for pay or profit and is of a nature generally performed for pay or profit.

Each year, the Social Security Administration sets a substantial gainful activity limit. This limit usually changes annually in light of inflation and other economic factors. In 2025, the SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month, while the SGA limit for non-blind recipients is $1,620 per month.

It is also important to remember that even after a trial work period ends and benefits are set to be discontinued, there is generally a 36-month grace period. During the grace period, at any time in the 36 months that you earn less than your SSDI benefit amount, you may apply to collect your benefit to compensate for the difference.

A Look at Return-to-Work Incentives

If you are considering the possibility of returning to work and you receive Social Security disability benefits, all of this information may seem overwhelming and even intimidating. That’s understandable. It’s important to remember, however, that returning to work can be a gradual process, and that the Social Security Administration wants people to return to work and even offers incentives for doing so.

In addition to the trial work period we’ve already discussed, the Social Security Administration also offers something called the “Ticket to Work” program. Ticket to Work is a program that offers beneficiaries resources and help, including vocational rehabilitation, job training, and a variety of other support services, as they attempt to return to work. While participating in the Ticket to Work program, individuals can continue to receive their disability checks each month. The goal is ultimately to encourage a return to work, but to reduce financial stress during the initial attempts to do so.

Call Disability Experts Florida Today

At Disability Experts Florida, we know that our disabled clients face many challenges. We understand what a tremendous difference disability benefits can make in relieving financial stress, and we know that you want to do all you can to pursue those benefits and to protect them if you receive them. That’s why we’re here to help. Our experienced legal team knows and understands every aspect of the law pertaining to disability benefits, and we’ll keep you informed and involved in your claim each step of the way. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to helping you soon.