Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

When you return to work in New Mexico, SSA evaluates your earnings by:

• SGA limits determine if your work is considered substantial enough to affect benefits.
• For 2024, earning over $1,470 per month(non-blind) is generally considered SGA.
• Earnings below SGA levels usually allow continued receipt of benefits.

Trial Work Period (TWP) Benefits

New Mexico SSDI recipients can use the TWP to test work abilities:

• TWP allows up to 9 months of work with earnings above a monthly threshold without losing benefits.
• These months don’t have to be consecutive and occur within a 60-month period.
• It helps you regain financial independence without immediate risk to SSDI.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

Following the TWP, EPE provides additional protection:

• An additional 36 months during which you can work and still receive benefits if earnings don’t exceed SGA.
• Benefits can be suspended if earnings go above SGA but reinstated if earnings drop back below the limit.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)

Certain work expenses in New Mexico may reduce your countable earnings:

• IRWE includes costs of items or services directly related to your disability that help you work.
• These expenses are deducted from your earnings before SSA determines SGA status.

Potential Risk of Benefit Suspension or Termination

Be aware that:

• If your earnings consistently exceed SGA after the TWP and EPE, your SSDI benefits may be stopped.
• You have rights to appeal decisions or request reinstatement if your condition worsens.

Reporting Requirements to SSA

It’s important to:

• Report all work activity and earnings promptly to avoid overpayments or penalties.
• Maintain communication with SSA on your employment status.