What are SSDI income limits in Louisiana?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/31/2025
If you're applying for or currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Louisiana, it's essential to understand the income limits that apply. Earning too much money—whether through work or other sources—can put your benefits at risk. These income rules are set by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but they apply consistently across states, including Louisiana.

Let’s break down what these limits are, how they apply, and what exceptions might exist.
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Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit
One of the key concepts in SSDI is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). This is the maximum amount of income you can earn from work each month and still qualify for disability benefits.
As of 2025, the SGA limit is:
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals
- $2,590 per month for blind individuals
If you earn more than the applicable limit, the SSA may determine that you are capable of “substantial” work and therefore not eligible for SSDI benefits.
What Counts as Income?
Only earned income (wages, salary, self-employment income) counts toward the SGA limit. Here’s what typically counts:
- Wages from a job
- Net self-employment income
- Commissions and bonuses
On the other hand, unearned income—like child support, investment income, or gifts—does not count toward the SGA limit for SSDI purposes (though it can affect SSI benefits, which is a different program).
The Trial Work Period (TWP)
The SSA offers something called a Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work without losing SSDI benefits right away.
In 2025, any month you earn over $1,110 (the TWP threshold) counts as a trial work month. You can use up to 9 trial work months within a rolling 60-month period. During this time, you keep your full SSDI payments, no matter how much you earn.
After the TWP ends, your benefits may stop if you consistently earn over the SGA limit—but you’ll get a grace period and may still qualify for expedited reinstatement later if your condition worsens.
Louisiana-Specific Considerations
Even though SSDI is a federal program, residents of Louisiana should still consider a few local factors:
- State programs or Medicaid eligibility might have their own income limits
- Any state-provided assistance tied to SSDI could be affected by reported earnings
- Reporting your income properly to SSA is essential for avoiding overpayments and penalties
How Hogan Smith Can Help
The rules around income and SSDI can be confusing—and a single mistake could cost you your benefits. At Hogan Smith, we help Louisiana residents:
- Understand exactly what income counts against the SSDI limits
- Properly document and report earnings
- Navigate the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility
- Fight overpayment claims or benefit suspensions
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Concerned that your income could affect your SSDI benefits in Louisiana? Don’t risk your financial security. Contact Hogan Smith today for personalized guidance and clear answers. We’re here to help you make the most of your benefits while staying within the rules.
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