- DISABILITY GUIDE
- 3. AM I ELIGIBLE FOR DISABILITIES BENEFITS?
3.1 Income Requirements
INCOME REQUIREMENTS
Whatever the type of Social Security Disability Benefits you are applying for, the SSA has certain income requirements. It not only determines your eligibility for a given program, but also the amount of monthly compensation you will receive.
1. How does Income affect SSDI?
Income plays a major role when determining your eligibility for SSDI. If you are currently able to perform your job duties and earn a steady income despite your disability, you may not be eligible for disability insurance benefits, or SSDI. In this case, even though you have a disability, you’ve shown that you can participate in the workforce and engage in what is known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
In 2026, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits for non-blind individuals are $1,690 per month, while blind individuals have an SGA limit of $2,830 per month.
If you can prove that a disability keeps you from earning a living wage and your SSDI claim is approved, your pre-disability income will determine the amount of disability pay you can receive each month.
How does income affect my eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”)?
Your income will determine your eligibility for SSI. There is an allowable income limit set by the Social Security Administration. This income limit is the same as what is known as the “Federal Benefit Rate”
To be eligible for SSI in 2026, you generally need to be 65+, blind, or disabled, and have very limited income and resources (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples), with the maximum federal benefit increasing to $994/month for individuals and $1,491/month for couples.
What is considered income when applying for SSI?
- Most wages and earnings,
- Money for food and shelter you receive from friends or family,
- Rental income, annuity and pension benefits,
- and certain prizes, gifts, settlements, and court-ordered awards.
What is not considered income when applying for SSI?
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP or “food stamps”),
- Shelter from nonprofit organizations,
- and medical care and social services.
Questions about SSI benefits for you or you child?
Determining if your assets disqualify you for SSI benefits
In addition to your household income, your assets affect your eligibility for SSI benefits.
Single seeking SSI benefits? If so, you can have assets worth up to $2,000.00.
A couple seeking SSI benefits? You can have assets worth up to $3,000.00 and still be eligible.
Assets are things you own.
Some assets the Social Security Administration considers are:
- Cash or money in checking and savings accounts,
- Certificates of Deposit,
- Stocks and U.S. Savings Bonds
- Certain life insurance policies.
Things that are not typically considered assets/resources:
- The value of the home you live in and the land it is on,
- Usually your car,
- Burial plots and burial funds for immediate family members.
Remember, your income and assets, as well your disabilities, determine the amount of SSI benefits you receive.
Here are some related articles you may find interesting:
- NAVIGATING CLAIMS
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- DISABILITY BENEFITS
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Here are some related articles you may find interesting:
- NAVIGATING CLAIMS
- 5 MINUTE READ
- 7 Minute Read
- DISABILITY BENEFITS
- 5 MINUTE READ
- 7 Minute Read
