What is the income limit for SSDI in Massachusetts?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/17/2025
If you're applying for or receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Massachusetts, one key eligibility requirement is not engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). This is measured primarily by your earnings. Here's a detailed look at what the SGA limits mean for you in 2025.
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1. What Is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?
SGA refers to work activity and earnings considered significant by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If your average monthly income from work exceeds the SGA threshold, you are generally deemed not disabled, regardless of your medical condition.
2. SGA Monthly Limits for 2025
- Non-blind individuals: $1,620 per month
- Statutorily blind individuals: $2,700 per month
To maintain SSDI eligibility:
- Keep gross monthly earnings below $1,620 if non-blind
- Or below $2,700 if you are legally blind
3. Do These Limits Apply to Massachusetts?
Yes. SGA limits are set by SSA and apply uniformly across all states, including Massachusetts.
4. What Counts Toward SGA?
SGA calculations consider total gross earnings before taxes, including:
- Wages, salary, tips, self-employment income
- Some passive earnings such as royalties or commissions
Adjustments may be made for subsidies, impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs), and unsuccessful work attempts, which can reduce your countable income.
5. Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
Even if your earnings exceed SGA, SSA work incentive programs allow you to test your ability to work:
- Trial Work Period (TWP):
- Up to 9 trial months within a 60-month period
- In 2025, a month with earnings over $1,160 counts as a trial work month
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE):
- Lasts for 36 months after your TWP ends
- You can receive benefits for any month your earnings stay beneath the SGA threshold ($1,620 or $2,700)
6. What Happens If You Earn Over the Limit?
- During a TWP month, your benefits are unaffected.
- Once TWP ends, if earnings exceed SGA during your EPE, your benefits are suspended but can restart if earnings drop again below the threshold.
- If earnings exceed the SGA limit after your EPE ends, your SSDI benefits will be terminated.
7. Tips to Stay Within the Limits
- Track your earnings monthly and report promptly to SSA
- Use IRWEs and subsidies to reduce countable income
- Monitor trial work months to know when your TWP ends
- Save detailed earnings and expense records in case SSA requests proof
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we understand that managing income and SSDI rules can be tricky. Our experienced team can:
- Interpret SGA limits for your situation
- Track your Trial Work Period and EPE to ensure continued benefits
- Reduce countable income using SSA-approved deductions
- Help document earnings and expenses to avoid overpayments or cuts
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re navigating SSDI in Massachusetts and want to ensure your income doesn’t jeopardize your benefits, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll help you work within the rules and maximize your financial stability.
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