Usually, earnings of more than $800 a month are considered substantial. If your earnings average less than $800 a month, your benefits generally would continue indefinitely. If your earnings average more than $800 a month, this is considered an indication of your ability to work.

During the trial work period, there are no limits on your earnings. During the 36-month extended period of eligibility, the $800 level is the cutoff point. But, under another work incentive rule explained in the next answer, the work expenses you have as a result of your disability are deducted when we count your earnings to see if they affect your benefits. This means your earnings could be substantially higher than $800 before they affect your benefits.