Can You Work and Be On Social Security Disability?

A disability can affect every aspect of your life. One area that it often affects the most is work, where you have to meet certain requirements and perform various activities or tasks. That’s why many people with disabilities are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance, which offers financial assistance for those who can’t work.

But what if you can do some work with your disability–can you still qualify for disability benefits? This is an especially important question since the average Social Security disability payment is not enough to live on. Talbot & Kesling at Capital Injury Law is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities receive their deserved benefits. Let’s learn more about the SSDI system and whether you can work while receiving benefits.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a federal program that financially supports people who can’t work due to a disability. Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, also helps support people with disabilities. The difference is that SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI is funded by payroll taxes and is based on your contribution to Social Security.

That’s why SSDI is a type of insurance. You pay for it by paying taxes, and then you can qualify for benefits based on how much you paid. With Social Security Disability, you’ll receive monthly payments and Medicare after two years. Your spouse and children may also be eligible for SSDI benefits.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict requirements for SSDI eligibility. A successful application requires extensive medical evidence and documentation, which is why most applications are initially denied. Working with Social Security lawyers like Talbot & Kesling is the best way to strengthen your SSDI claim, as they’ll help you gather the right evidence to prove your eligibility.

SSDI eligibility has two components: you must have a qualifying disability and a sufficient work history.

Qualifying Disability

Many medical conditions can qualify for disability insurance. Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from substantial gainful activity (SGA) and must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Work Credit

Since SSDI is funded by payroll taxes, you must have made enough of a contribution over the years to qualify. Every year you work and earn a certain amount, you receive up to four work credits. To qualify for Social Security Disability, you typically need at least 20 work credits, but this number varies based on your age. Younger adults may qualify with fewer credits.

Can You Work on Social Security Disability?

SSDI is meant to financially support individuals who can’t earn sufficient income due to their disability. Consequently, if you’re able to work a job that produces substantial income, you won’t qualify for SSDI.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t work at all while receiving SSDI benefits. If you can only work part-time, it may not be considered substantial gainful activity, and you would still qualify for SSDI.

Understanding SGA

Substantial gainful activity (SGA) is an evaluation the SSA uses to determine if you can financially support yourself with your disability. In 2024, you typically must make more than $1,550 a month (or $2,590 if you’re blind) for it to be considered SGA. So long as your work does not earn more than this, you are still eligible for SSDI.

How Income Affects Your Disability Benefits

You must report all work activity while receiving disability benefits. If you return to work, you will have a trial work period for nine months, where there is no limit on your monthly earnings and you can still qualify for benefits.

After this nine-month trial, there is an extended period of eligibility where you can only earn up to the SGA limit ($1,550). If you exceed that amount in a month, you won’t qualify for your SSDI payment. There are some circumstances that can increase your monthly limit. For example, if you have specific transportation needs due to your disability that cost $300 a month, your SGA limit can be increased by $300.

Get Your SSDI Benefits with Talbot & Kesling

Whether you’re working part-time or unable to work at all due to your disability, our mission is to help you get the benefits you deserve. Talbot & Kesling specializes in SSDI cases in WA, providing the experience and expertise to make your application or appeal successful.

SSDI applications are often denied because of insufficient proof that the disability qualifies and that you are unable to meet the SGA requirement. Social Security lawyers know how to gather and present the right evidence, building a strong SSDI claim that meets all the SSA’s specifications. If you have to appeal a denial, having legal representation during the hearing nearly doubles your chances of success.

Schedule a Consultation with Talbot & Kesling Today!

For something as important as getting the financial support you need and deserve, investing in a good lawyer to strengthen your case pays off. We only get paid if you do. 

Talbot & Kesling offer comprehensive, compassionate service, guiding you through every step of the SSDI process. Schedule a consultation with Talbot & Kesling today to start the journey to your SSDI benefits.