Income Limits for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is a program for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes during their employment. Unlike SSI, which is based on financial need, SSDI eligibility primarily depends on your work history and the severity of your

disability. However, your income still plays a role in determining whether you qualify for SSDI.

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): The SSA uses the concept of Substantial Gainful Activity to assess whether you can work while still receiving SSDI benefits. If you earn more than the SGA limit, the SSA may determine that you are not disabled and deny your claim.
• For 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month.
• For blind individuals, the SGA limit is $2,460 per month.
• If you earn below these thresholds and meet the medical criteria for disability, you may be eligible for SSDI.

Income Limits for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals who have limited income and resources and are unable to work due to disability or age. Unlike SSDI, the income limits for SSI are more restrictive, as SSI is intended for individuals with low income and few financial resources.

• Income Limits: The income limit for SSI varies depending on whether you live independently or with others.
• The Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) for 2025 is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 per month for a couple.
• If your income exceeds these limits, you may not qualify for SSI benefits. The SSA considers various types of income, including wages, Social Security benefits, and unearned income (such as gifts or support from others).
• In-kind support (such as food or shelter provided by others) can also reduce your SSI benefit amount.

How Income Affects Your SSI and SSDI Claim

For SSDI, your eligibility is based primarily on your work history and disability severity. However, earning above the SGA limit can lead to a denial. For SSI, income limits are stricter, and your eligibility can be directly impacted by your total income, including earnings and other financial resources.

It’s important to note that even if your income exceeds the limits, the SSA may offer partial benefits or consider deductions for certain expenses.