Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is used
to describe the level of work activity that is considered by SSA to
be both substantial and gainful. SGA activities, both physical and mental,
are measured over a reasonable period of time. SSA will evaluate work
activity by looking at any work performed for pay (how much a person
earns), work performed for pay whether or not pay is received (the kind
of work a person does). See current amounts.
For beneficiaries who engage in self-employment, SSA determines SGA
by three tests:
- Net Earnings over SGA per month and substantial service ( substantial
managerial services @45 hours a month.) - see DI 10510.015
- Comparability of work (the service the beneficiary performs are
comparable to those performed by workers who do not experience a disability);
- Worth of work activities.. - see DI 10510.020
Legislation has established separate rules for Title II beneficiaries
who experience blindness. SGA levels for beneficiaries who are blind
changes every year reflecting changes in the general wage levels.
Self-employed beneficiaries of Title II who experience blindness
are evaluated for SGA solely on earnings. A separate evaluation of the
time spent in the business is not made as it is for beneficiaries who
are not blind.
As of 2001 the SGA monthly amounts will increase yearly based
on the National Average Wage Index
The SGA for individuals who are blind is changed every year based
on the Cost of Living Index (COLA)
