When do we consider subsidies and special conditions?

We consider the existence of subsidies and/or special conditions when we make a substantial gainful activity (SGA) decision. We use only earnings that represent the real value of the work you perform to decide if your work is at the SGA level.

What is a subsidy?

A “subsidy” is support provided by your employer that may result in you receiving more pay than the actual value of the services you perform. A subsidy may exist when you work under any of the following conditions:

• You receive extra assistance or employer accommodation to complete job duties (i.e., job coach, extra help, or supervision, etc.).
• You are assigned fewer or easier duties than typically required by the job description.
• You have a special relationship to the employer (i.e., friend, relative, long-term employee, etc.,).
• You take additional breaks or time off as an accommodation.
• You have other employer accommodations.

What are special conditions?

A special condition is support and on-the-job assistance provided by your employer, or someone other than your employer, for example, a vocational rehabilitation agency. Because of this support, you may receive more pay than the actual value of the services you perform.

Do subsidies or special conditions affect my SSI payments?

No, we do not consider subsidies or special conditions when we figure your SSI payment amount. We do, however, consider subsidies and special conditions when we determine your initial eligibility to SSI benefits.