The 2026 Numbers You Need to Know

The SSA uses specific dollar amounts to decide how your work affects your benefits. For 2026, keep these figures in mind:

• Trial Work Period (TWP) Threshold: $1,210/month. If you earn more than this, you use one of your 9 "test" months.

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): $1,690/month (or $2,830 if you are blind). This is the "cliff" the SSA looks at after your trial period ends.

Tips for Filling Out Form SSA-821

When completing the report, remember: accuracy is your best defense.

• Don't Just List Wages: The SSA wants to know about "Special Conditions." If you have a job coach, take extra breaks, or have fewer duties than your coworkers because of your disability, write it down. These supports can lower your "countable" earnings in the eyes of the SSA.

• Track Your Expenses: Did you pay for special transportation, medications, or equipment to help you work? These are Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs). Listing them can help protect your benefits by reducing your reported income.

• Be Specific About "Why": If you had to stop working or reduce your hours, the 2026 form now has a specific section for this. Select "Because of my disability" if your health was the reason. This helps prove that your work attempt was "unsuccessful" in the SSA's eyes, which is actually a good thing for keeping your safety net.

• Keep Your Receipts: Always keep copies of your pay stubs and any receipts for work-related expenses. The SSA may ask for these to verify your report.

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Navigating the legal and medical complexities of the Ticket to Work program is what "The A-Team" does best. You focus on your career; we’ll help you handle the paperwork.