how much can i earn while on ssdi in 2026
In 2026, the main SSDI work limit is $1,690 per month for non-blind recipients; if you’re blind, it’s $2,830 per month. Those figures are the Social Security Administration’s Substantial Gainful Activity limits for 2026.
What that means
- If you’re on SSDI and non-blind , earning more than $1,690/month can put your benefits at risk after the trial work rules are considered.
- If you’re blind , the higher limit is $2,830/month.
- During the Trial Work Period , months with earnings above $1,210 count toward your 9 trial work months in 2026.
Important nuance
SSDI rules are different from retirement benefits. The retirement earnings limits in 2026 are $24,480/year if you’re under full retirement age and $65,160/year in the year you reach full retirement age, but those are not the SSDI work limits.
Practical takeaway
A simple rule of thumb for 2026 is:
- Under $1,210/month : usually below the trial-work threshold.
- Between $1,210 and $1,690/month : may still be okay depending on your SSDI situation, but it counts as work activity.
- Over $1,690/month : for most non-blind SSDI recipients, this can trigger a finding of substantial gainful activity.
Note
These limits are based on gross monthly earnings , not what you take home after taxes.
TL;DR: For most people on SSDI in 2026, the key number is $1,690 per month ; for blind recipients, it’s $2,830 per month.