10 Things to Know About SSDI.

The information contained in this article applies to October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.

1. Benefit.  Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a monthly cash benefit the amount of which is based on the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) formula.  The individual must be unable to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).  SGA is a term used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to describe a level of work activity earnings that determines an individual’s eligibility for disability benefits.  The amount of monthly earnings considered SGA depends on the nature of the disability.
2. Earned Income.  For 2026, an individual is able to earn more than $1,690 per month, and for a blind individual $2,830 per month.  This would be considered SGA.
3. Unearned Income.  There is no limit on unearned income.
4. Resource Limit.  There is no resource limit.
5. Transfer of Asset Penalty.  There is no transfer of asset penalty, because there is no limit on assets.
6. Lookback Period.  There is no lookback period, because there is no limit on assets.
7. Penalty Calculation.  There is no penalty calculation, because there is no limit on assets.
8. Special Need Trust.   There is no need for establishment of a Special Needs Trust, because there is no limit on unearned income.
9. Who Can Collect?  A wage-earner with a disability under age 65 can collect.  A spouse or a child under age 19 can collect.  A child disabled prior to age 22 can collect.
10. Who Determines Disability?  SSA determines disability.