To Qualify for SSD, you must be out of work for at least a year   Must you be out of work for at least a year to qualify for SSD? The definition of disability that is used by SSA does not actually state that you have to be "out of work". What does the definition say? Actually, it says that your condition must prevent you from earning at least the SGA amount while engaging in past work you've done (this would include your most recent job) or while engaging in other work, and this situation must last at least a year. Resources: 1. Working and Disability 2. Will Social Security deny my disability claim if I am working? 3. How does Social Security Disability decide that you cannot work? 4. What if you are working when you file for disability or work after you apply? So, in other words, you can work and apply for disability and you can work while receiving disability in California. You just need to stay under the SGA limit. And to be safe you may wish to stay under the trial work earnings limit. To see the current limits mentioned in this post: SGA and Trial work earnings limits 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? 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