When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Kentucky, one of the most important eligibility factors is your income. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific rules to determine what types of income count toward the monthly earnings limit, known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If your countable income is too high, your SSDI application may be denied—even if you have a serious medical condition.
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1. The SSDI Income Limit in Kentucky
For 2025, the federal SGA limit is:
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals.
- $2,590 per month for blind individuals.
These limits apply in Kentucky just as they do in every state. If your countable earned income exceeds these amounts, the SSA will consider you capable of engaging in gainful employment, which may disqualify you from receiving SSDI benefits.
2. What Types of Income Count Toward SSDI
The SSA does not treat all income the same. Here’s what generally counts toward SSDI in Kentucky:
- Wages from employment (hourly, salary, or tips).
- Net earnings from self-employment.
- Bonuses, commissions, or overtime pay.
- In-kind income such as room and board provided by your employer.
These are considered earned income because they show you are actively engaged in work.
3. What Does Not Count Toward SSDI
Some forms of income do not count toward SGA and will not affect your eligibility:
- Child support or alimony.
- Unemployment benefits.
- VA benefits or workers’ compensation.
- Investment income (dividends, stocks, interest).
- Gifts, inheritances, or family support.
These are considered unearned income, and while they may affect other programs like SSI, they are not counted against SSDI eligibility in Kentucky.
4. Special Considerations for Kentucky Applicants
- Trial Work Period (TWP): If you are already receiving SSDI, you can test your ability to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits. For 2025, earning over $1,110 in a month counts as a trial work month.
- Subsidized Employment: If your employer makes accommodations that reduce the value of your work (for example, giving you easier tasks or fewer responsibilities), not all of your wages may count.
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Costs you pay out of pocket to work—such as medications, transportation, or special equipment—may be deducted from your countable income.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Kentucky residents understand the complex rules around SSDI eligibility and income limits. Our team can:
- Review your income sources to determine what counts toward SGA.
- Help you document work accommodations or impairment-related expenses.
- Guide you through the application or appeal process if income issues arise.
- Protect your benefits if you are working part-time or considering returning to work.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you are asking “What income counts toward SSDI in Kentucky?”, our team is here to give you clear answers. Contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the rules so you don’t risk losing the benefits you need.
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