Can I qualify for disability if I am working?Work is a very important eligibility requirement for qualifying for disability. Social Security's definition of disability states that your disabling condition must have prevented you from performing SGA for twelve continuous months or your expect that it will prevent you from performing SGA-level work for twelve continuous months. SGA is a monthly earnings limit that Social Security considers to be self-supporting. Each year the limit increases a small amount. The SGA limit is in place not matter what your disabling condition is or how severe, in fact, your disabling condition could be terminal. If you are performing SGA your disability claim will be denied without ever being sent for a medical disability determination. If you are working but you are not earning over the SGA limit, your disability claim will be taken and sent for a medical disability determination. A word of caution, if you are medically approved for disability, your disability claim may still be denied for performance of SGA. In conclusion, you can qualify for disability even if you are working provided you work activity is not over the limit. SGA does not consider that you are working less hours just what you are earning. For instance if a person is working 25 hours a week with a pay of $15.00 an hour may be over the SGA limit, while another person working 35 hours per week making $7.25 per hour may be under the limit. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: What is the criteria for disability benefits in North Carolina? Can You Qualify for Disability if you did not work much? Can You Apply For Disability Benefits When You Lose Your Job? How Can I Get Social Security Disability If I Have Not Worked For A Long Time? What happens if you are working when you file for disability or work after you apply for disability? Will I qualify for disability if I tried to go back to work? What If You Did Not Work Long Enough To Qualify For Disability? Can I Get Disability If I Was Paid Under the Table? If I Apply For Disability And Go Back To Work, Do I Need To Report This? |
