Can You Work Part-Time While Applying for Disability?

You may be thinking about applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because you have a medical condition that’s keeping you from working full-time. At the same time, you need to continue providing for your family. Right now, you probably have many questions, including: “What options do I have?”

Can I at Least Work Part-Time While Applying for Disability?

Due to Social Security Administration (SSA) rules and restrictions, the answer is…complicated. You may be allowed to work part-time, within certain income limits. That’s why Black & Jones Attorneys at Law are here to help you understand the details. We are committed to helping you make an informed decision as you move forward and try to balance working, SSDI and creating some income.

Part-Time Work vs. Disability Application: How to Be Sure

A medical issue is keeping you from working full-time. Your disability claim may be pending, but you still need to put food on the table. By now, you are probably wondering, “Can I pick up some part-time work to bridge the gap?” 

The uncertainty, and even fear, surrounding your situation can make it feel even worse. Your questioning is well founded because the limitations can be hard to navigate. Your family’s well-being is at stake, so you must feel certain that you are making the right decision. In order to be sure about exactly what you can do—and earn—it’s important to rely on the advice of attorneys who know how the system works and deal with it, day in and day out.

What Are My Options to Provide for My Family?

Maybe you feel unable to work at all. Or, maybe you are considering remote customer service phone work because it feels doable. No matter what path you may pursue, it’s important to ensure that your decisions won’t negatively impact your disability claim or your total income.

Under some circumstances, you may be able to work and earn some income while pursuing a claim for SSDI benefits. But it is important to note that there are limits to what you can earn each month and if you exceed those limits even once, it can substantially impair your claim. Furthermore, working even part time can sometimes lead to a conclusion that you are capable of working more.

Working and earning anything at all can have an even bigger impact on a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim. Since SSI is an income- and asset-based system, earning even as little as $21 a month can have an impact.

It is vital that you talk to an attorney and get answers on your particular circumstances before you accept a job offer or attempt to work.

Why All the Acronyms?

They can all feel confusing—and overwhelming. All the Social Security Administration’s acronyms, terms and definitions—SSA (Social Security Administration), SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity)—can make your head swim. We work with the agencies and the parameters they set every day, and we know how to explain them in easy-to-understand terms, so that you can make well-informed decisions about your continued livelihood. 

While you can find some of this information in an easy-to-read format on Social Security’s website, speaking with an experienced attorney about how the rules and guidelines apply to your specific situation is vital. At Black & Jones, sometimes the first meeting with clients is not to actually apply for benefits. Sometimes that first meeting is when you are still working and is used as a planning session where we analyze your situation and empower you with information to make a clear plan for your future. Best of all, that consultation is free!

How Do I Make the Process as Smooth as Possible?

Gather your thoughts and notes, list your questions and concerns, and make the call. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, not only do we offer the guidance you need to make the right decision for you and your family, if it is time to move forward we can also help you expedite your SSDI claim process. 

As knowledgeable, local attorneys who specialize in SSDI cases like yours throughout Winnebago County and surrounding counties, we can guide you through the claim process. How? We share how to gather your medical and financial evidence so we can present your case effectively and demonstrate how your disability impacts your ability to earn a living.

Why Work With an Attorney?

At Black & Jones, we have over 60 years of combined experience in Social Security Disability law. You can trust us to put that expertise to work for you. We’re Rockford’s hometown Social Security Disability lawyers who make sure the system works for you, so you don’t need to be an expert. Contact the experienced team at Black & Jones today at (815) 967-9000 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.