Understanding the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) income limits in Colorado is crucial for anyone applying for or currently receiving disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific income rules to determine both your eligibility and continued qualification for SSDI.

If you earn above certain income thresholds, you may be considered capable of performing substantial gainful activity (SGA)—which can affect your eligibility. Here’s what you need to know about how income limits work for SSDI in Colorado.
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What Is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?
The SSA uses the concept of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine whether your disability prevents you from working enough to qualify for benefits.
In 2025, the monthly SGA limits are as follows:
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals.
- $2,590 per month for individuals who are blind.
If your gross monthly income (before taxes) exceeds these limits, the SSA will likely decide that you are not disabled under their rules. This threshold applies nationwide, including Colorado.
How Work Affects SSDI Eligibility in Colorado
When you apply for SSDI, the SSA examines your work history and current earnings to determine eligibility. Even if you’re working part-time, your income cannot consistently exceed the SGA limit.
However, there are exceptions and programs that allow limited work while maintaining your benefits:
Trial Work Period (TWP)
Once you’ve been approved for SSDI, you can test your ability to work through a Trial Work Period.
- In 2025, any month in which you earn more than $1,110 counts as a trial work month.
- You can work for nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 60-month window without losing your benefits.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After completing your trial work period, you’ll enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility. During this time, you can continue to receive benefits for any month your income is below the SGA threshold.
These rules give SSDI recipients in Colorado some flexibility to try returning to work without immediately losing benefits.
Unearned Income and Other Benefits
It’s important to note that unearned income—such as savings, investments, or a spouse’s income—does not affect SSDI benefits. SSDI is based on your work history and disability status, not financial need.
However, if you also receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), income and resources do impact your eligibility since SSI is a needs-based program.
Tips for Managing Income While on SSDI
If you’re receiving SSDI in Colorado and considering working part-time, follow these steps to protect your benefits:
- Keep accurate records of all earnings.
- Report income changes promptly to the SSA to avoid overpayment or penalties.
- Understand your work incentives, such as the Trial Work Period and Ticket to Work program.
Consulting with a Social Security professional or attorney can help ensure you stay compliant with SSA rules while maximizing your income potential.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Colorado residents understand and manage their SSDI eligibility and income limits. Our team can:
- Explain how work or income changes may affect your benefits.
- Guide you through the process of reporting income to the SSA.
- Help you file for SSDI or appeal a decision if benefits are denied or terminated.
- Provide personalized advice on maintaining eligibility under SSA’s income rules.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about SSDI income limits in Colorado or want to ensure your work activity doesn’t jeopardize your benefits, contact Hogan Smith today.
We offer a free consultation to review your situation, explain the SSA’s rules in simple terms, and help you make informed decisions about your disability benefits.

Reach out to Hogan Smith now for trusted guidance on protecting your SSDI benefits in Colorado.
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