When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Texas, one of the most important factors the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers is your income. While SSDI is based on your work history and disability status, certain types of income can impact whether you qualify and how your benefits are calculated. Understanding which income counts—and which doesn’t—is key to protecting your eligibility.
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How the SSA Defines Income for SSDI
The SSA measures income through Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). In 2025, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (or $2,590 if you’re blind), the SSA generally considers that you’re able to work and not disabled under their rules. Any earnings above these amounts can lead to a denial of benefits.
Income That Affects SSDI in Texas
Not all income is treated the same. Here’s what counts toward your SGA limit:
- Wages from Employment: Salary, hourly pay, tips, and bonuses.
- Self-Employment Income: Net earnings from freelance or business activities.
- In-Kind Payments for Work: Free housing, food, or other benefits provided in exchange for work.
- Other Work-Related Earnings: Commissions, piecework pay, or similar income.
Income That Does Not Affect SSDI in Texas
Some types of income are not counted against your SSDI eligibility, including:
- Investment Income: Dividends, interest, and capital gains.
- Pensions or Retirement Benefits: Payments from past work are not considered current income.
- Spouse’s Income: Your partner’s earnings do not affect SSDI eligibility.
- Gifts or Inheritances: Money received outside of work activity.
These sources of income may affect Supplemental Security Income (SSI), but not SSDI.
Special Rules for Work Income
- Trial Work Period (TWP): SSDI recipients can test working for at least 9 months without losing benefits, no matter how much they earn.
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After a TWP, you can still receive benefits in months where your income falls below the SGA limit.
- Unsuccessful Work Attempts: If you try to return to work but can’t continue due to your disability, the SSA may not count that income against you.
Why Income Rules Matter in Texas
Knowing what income affects SSDI can save you from unnecessary denials or benefit reductions. Many applicants are denied because they earn just above the limit or misunderstand what the SSA counts as income. Keeping accurate records and being aware of the rules is crucial.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we can guide you through the complexities of SSDI income rules in Texas. Our team can:
- Review your income sources to see what affects your eligibility.
- Explain trial work periods and SGA limits in simple terms.
- Help prepare your SSDI application with accurate income reporting.
- Represent you during appeals if income issues caused a denial.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re unsure what income may affect your SSDI eligibility in Texas, don’t risk a denial. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the SSA’s rules so you can secure the benefits you need.
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