Working During Your Disability Claim Process

When dealing with a disabling condition, you may feel like you need to work even if it is becoming more painful to do so every day. But holding a job while applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be tricky. Work too much while waiting, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) could deny your claim. But, on the other hand, work too little, and you might not have the income you need to get by.

Fortunately, it may be possible to find the income you need while protecting your disability claim. The Disability Law Firm, P.A., is ready to help you. We can take the stress of a claim off your shoulders, manage the paperwork for your claim, and answer questions you may have, such as, “Can I work while I apply for disability?” 

We understand how frustrating and confusing trying to get the benefits you are entitled to can be. We have been standing up for our clients’ rights for over 20 years and have helped thousands of people secure the benefits they need. Our team has a thorough knowledge of the Social Security Disability process and a proven record of success on behalf of our clients.

Hiring us involves no upfront or out-of-pocket costs. We get paid only when we succeed for you. Call us or reach out online today for a free consultation about your case. Our law firm is conveniently located in Dade City, and we serve all of Pasco and Polk Counties.

Can I Work While My Social Security Disability Application Is Pending?

Can you work while applying for disability? The short answer is yes, you could work while your application is pending, but you will need to make sure your income does not exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. 

That limit determines the maximum amount of income you can earn each month while still qualifying for certain benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Generally, the SSA may deny your claim if you earn more than the SGA limit.

According to the SSA, the SGA amounts for 2022 are:

• $2,260 per month for blind individuals
• $1,350 per month for non-blind individuals

Some exceptions apply to these limits, but working while applying for disability benefits can be risky in many cases. If you make even slightly less than these limits, the SSA could deny your claim. If you can work full-time or close to it, the SSA could use that as evidence to show you should not qualify for benefits.

The answer to whether you can work while applying for SSD can be complex and depends on the type of benefits for which you are applying. Do not leave your application to chance if you want to keep working while applying for SSD benefits. Do not assume the SSA will understand what you are going through. Speak with a disability lawyer about your rights.

What Can I Do for Income While Waiting for SSD Benefits?

When you are waiting for SSD benefits, you could use other potential sources of support and income. Programs like the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program or the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families could provide assistance during this time. In some cases, temporary disability benefits could be available to injured workers.

Outside of these programs, there may be other ways of finding the money you need. Friends and family may be able to help you while your application is pending. If you have assets such as a home, a car, or life insurance, you might be able to borrow money against these.

In some cases, individuals may feel that they still need to work for income while waiting. Can you work while applying for Social Security disability benefits? Yes, but you will need to ensure that any work you do is not jeopardizing your application. Work with a lawyer to better understand the limits and how the SSA could view your employment regarding your disability claim.

Weighing the Risks of Working During Your Disability Claim Process

The decision of whether to work or not can be difficult. People facing disabilities may struggle to get by and pay their bills. But earning too much, or working too many hours, could cause problems for your application and ultimately result in a denial.

If you are considering working while applying for disability benefits or waiting for an SSD decision, talk with a disability lawyer first. They can review your options and help you understand how working could affect your claim. 

Will I Lose My Disability Benefits If I Work Part-Time?

What if you are approved for disability benefits? Could you still work part-time? The answer will depend on the type of disability benefits you have received and on your income.

If you receive disability benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, you cannot make more than the SGA limit amount for each month. In 2022, that is $2,260 per month for blind individuals and $1,350 per month for non-blind individuals. If you do, you could lose your benefits.

But SSDI also has some exceptions that could apply. For example, the SSA allows benefit recipients to participate in a trial work period where they could earn more than the limits while keeping benefits. But it is crucial to understand how this and other exceptions apply to your particular circumstances.

The rules are different under Supplemental Security Income (SSD) disability programs. When you are receiving benefits from that program, you could make more than the income limits set by that program. If you do, the SSA could reduce your benefits.

Contact Our Experienced Dade City SSD Lawyers Today

If you need to apply for disability benefits, contact The Disability Law Firm, P.A., now. With decades of experience, we are here to answer your questions and help you seek the benefits you need. We can guide you through the application process, advocate for your rights, and even appeal your case if required.

When it comes to applying for SSD benefits, experience and knowledge matter. Turn to The Disability Law Firm, P.A., for the advice and personal service you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.