This term describes work activity levels and income that would be classified as ‘substantial’ and ‘gainful’. Typically, if one’s income is around $1,310 (value last assessed 2021) a month for full time work, the person demonstrates SGA. Note that this numerical estimate does not apply to individuals who are blind. To assess a work activity, a gainful activity is either work performed for pay, work of nature generally performed for pay, or work intended for profit (profit may not be realized). 

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Definition Used by the SSA

If one is performing SGA the applicant will not be eligible as the agency will not consider them to be disabled. If one does not meet SGA, the case will be referred to DDS for further evaluation. 

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- Step 1: Is the child working?
- Step 2: Does the child have a severe impairment?
- Step 3: Does the child's impairment meet, or medically equal A listing, or functionally equal A the listings?


The Sequential Evaluation Process Steps for Individuals Under 18 

Ordp, O. (n.d.). Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)-- If You Are Disabled or Blind. Retrieved from https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-disable-ussi.htm#sgact

Supplemental Security Income for People With Disabilities or Blindness

The Sequential Evaluation Process Step 1 (Under 18)

DDS will determine if the application has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. Once determined, DDS will determine if the impairment is what they consider “severe”. If found to have a non-severe impairment as defined by DDS, the applicant will be dismissed. 

The Sequential Evaluation Process Step 2 (Under 18)

The applicant must meet or medically equal a listing in the listing of impairments provided and used by DDS. If an individual does not meet either of those 2 conditions, DDS will determine if the impairment ‘functionally equals the listings’ which involves a process where DDS will evaluate the impact the impairment has on an individual's ability to function at home, school, in the community, etc. 

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