Applying for social security disability while working

Can you work while applying for disability? Social Security Disability benefits can be very helpful to those who live with a disability. While waiting to hear if you qualify for disability benefits, it is still possible to continue working.

However, any income from employment may put your eligibility at risk. Our Social Security Disability lawyers have the knowledge and experience to navigate the application process. They will help you develop a better understanding of how your work can affect your eligibility.
Our Social Security Disability lawyers have the knowledge and experience to navigate the application process. They will help you develop a better understanding of how your work can affect your eligibility. 

In This Article

Types of Benefits You Can Apply For

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of disability benefits. Each program has different rules and income thresholds for eligibility. When applying, it is important to know the eligibility rules for each program. 

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) 

SSDI provides benefits to disabled or blind people who have contributed to the Social Security fund. The following people qualify for SSDI if they: 

• Have paid Social Security taxes and have been in the workforce long enough
• Are a child whose disability started before they turned 22, and whose parents have drawn Social Security Disability, Social Security retirement or have died.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) 

The SSI program makes cash assistance payments to blind, aged, or disabled persons who have limited income and resources. Children are able to receive SSI assistance. 

You are able to complete an SSI application if you: 

• Are of retirement age
• Blind or disabled, regardless of age
• Are a U.S. citizen or a national, or another qualifying non-citizen

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How Your Earnings Can Affect Your Social Security Benefits 

There are many factors that can affect whether or not you can get benefits and how long you can get benefits for, and your earnings are one of them. When working while applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is important to make sure you are not making more than the income threshold for each type of program. 

According to the Social Security Administration, you cannot earn more than what is considered substantial gainful activity (SGA). As of 2022, you cannot earn more than $1,350 per month to qualify for benefits as a non-blind individual. When applying for SSI benefits, you cannot make significant income or assets. This program is need-based and only certain incomes or asset levels are eligible. 

What to Report if You Work and are Waiting for SSDI or SSI Benefits 

If you are waiting to hear if you qualify for benefits, make sure to inform the Social Security Administration of any changes with your work. The changes that need to be reported to the SSA include: 

• You start or stop work
• You reported your work but duties, hours, or pay changed
• You start paying expenses for work because of your disability

You can report changes of work by phone, mail, or in person. Find your local office to get in contact to make these changes. If you need assistance, lawyers at our office can help you navigate this process. 

Social Security Work Incentives 

Not only can you work while you wait to hear if you qualify for disability benefits, but you can also receive incentives. The Social Security Administration gives incentives to disabled workers in the following ways: 

• Cash benefits continue while you work
• Medicare or Medicaid benefits will continue while you work
• Help with education, training, and rehabilitation to start a new line of work

It is important to make sure you are not making more than the threshold of income to remain qualified for SSDI and SSI benefits. 

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How Can I Speed Up the Disability and Review Process?

The process to qualify for disability benefits can be a long and confusing process. An attorney can help make sure your application goes smoothly, which may help prevent delays. Our lawyers understand how the SSA reviews applications and can help you apply for benefits if you qualify. 

We can help you prove that you are unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition. Our attorneys can also gather evidence that your medical condition is a long-term condition that impacts your ability to earn income.

What if My Application was Denied?

Applications can be denied for something as simple as a small error. The Social Security Administration may also need more evidence to support your condition. After being denied, you have 60 days from the date of the denial to file an appeal. 

The denial phase can be a lengthy process with a lot of steps. Our attorneys can represent you during an appeal, so you do not undertake this process alone. 

Call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, Today 

At Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, we have dedicated lawyers on staff who can advocate for you during the application process. Your Social Security Disability benefits are critical, and we can help you get approved. If you are denied benefits, we can also represent you during an appeals process. 

Our Social Security Disability attorneys will be by your side during the application process to get Social Security Disability benefits. Call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC today to review your case.

Call or text 828.286.3866 or complete a Case Evaluation form