What is meant by the term 'substantial gainful activity' (SGA)?

The term 'substantial gainful activity' (SGA) refers specifically to work that pays above a certain income threshold and is typically used in the context of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) eligibility. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has established specific income limits that define what constitutes SGA. If an individual earns above this limit, it may indicate that they are capable of engaging in significant work and may not meet the criteria for disability benefits.

Understanding SGA is crucial for individuals applying for SSDI, as earning above the SGA threshold can disqualify them from receiving benefits. The income thresholds are updated periodically to reflect changes in the economy, ensuring that they are aligned with current economic conditions.

While the other options mention aspects of work, they do not accurately capture the focused definition of SGA as set by the SSA. For instance, not all work contributes to SGA if it does not meet the income threshold, and any work performed in any capacity does not necessarily qualify as substantial gainful activity if it lacks sufficient earnings. Moreover, classifying activity based solely on whether it is light and non-strenuous fails to consider the crucial income aspect that defines SGA.