To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, a claimant must be unable to engage in a substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. The amount of monthly earnings that generally demonstrate engagement in SGA is determined by the Social Security Administration and changes annually. The Medical Review Team (MRT) uses Social Security’s methodology on SGA for determining disability. Refer to Income Maintenance Manual Sections 1060.005.10 Submitting Information on New Applicants to MRT and 1060.005.15 Submitting Information on Cases Previously Reviewed by MRT for additional information.
Use the following chart showing SGA when determining whether or not medical records must be submitted to MRT along with the Social Information Summary (IM-61):
| Amount of Earnings that Demonstrates Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for Non-blind Individuals | Effective Year | Amount of Earnings that Demonstrates Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for Blind Individuals |
|---|---|---|
| $1,550/month | 2024 | $2,590/month |
| $1,470/month | 2023 | $2,460/month |
| $1,350/month | 2022 | $2,260/month |
| $1,310/month | 2021 | $2,190/month |
| $1,260/month | 2020 | $2,110/month |
| $1,220/month | 2019 | $2,040/month |
| $1,180/month | 2018 | $1,970/month |
| $1,170/month | 2017 | $1,950/month |
| $1,130/month | 2016 | $1,820/month |
| $1,090/month | 2015 | $1,820/month |
| $1,070/month | 2014 | $1,800/month |
| $1,040/month | 2013 | $1,740/month |
| $1,010/month | 2012 | $1,690/month |
| $1,000/month | 2010 | $1,640/month |
| $980/month | 2009 | $1,640/month |
| $980/month | 2008 | $1,570/month |
| $900/month | 2007 | $1,500/month |
| $860/month | 2006 | $1,450/month |