Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

At Step 1 of the Five Step Sequential Evaluation Process Social Security considers your work activity since the date you allege you became disabled. If you are earning Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), Social Security will deem you not disabled regardless of any medical condition, age, education and work experience. Part-time work may be considered SGA if the amount you are earning per month exceeds the limits set by Social Security.

Substantial Gainful Activity or “SGA” is a term used to describe a level of work activity and earnings.

• “Substantial” work involves doing significant physical or mental activities or a combination of the two. Part-time work can be considered substantial.
• “Gainful” work is work generally performed for pay or profit whether or not a profit is realized.
• SGA monthly earnings:
  • non-blind claimants
    • 2008 =  $940
    • 2009 =  $980
    • 2010 =  $1000
    • 2011 =  $1000
    • 2012 =  $1010
  • blind claimants
    • 2008 =  $1570
    • 2009 =  $1640
    • 2010 =  $1640
    • 2011 =  $1640
    • 2012 =  $1690

  Please note that Social Security periodically changes these amounts. These amounts are only applicable to monthly earnings in the years listed.

  WP Glossary Term Usage

  • Step 6

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