Yes. If your gross monthly earnings are below the SGA threshold, you can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits while still working. However, you still must demonstrate that your medical condition prevents you from performing substantial work on a full-time basis.
Important considerations:
- Working part-time or earning below SGA doesn’t automatically guarantee approval.
- The SSA will evaluate your ability to perform work-related activities (called Residual Functional Capacity or RFC).
- You must provide medical evidence showing that your condition significantly limits your ability to work.
What Types of Work Count Toward SGA?
Any activity that generates income can be evaluated for SGA purposes, including:
- Part-time employment
- Freelance or gig work
- Self-employment
- Consulting or independent contracting
Even if you’re working from home or setting your own hours, the SSA will analyze how much income you earn and the value of your work.
How Self-Employment Is Evaluated for SGA
If you’re self-employed, the SSA doesn’t only consider your income. Instead, they use three tests to determine if your work is substantial and gainful:
- Significant Services and Substantial Income Test
- Comparability Test: Is your work similar to that of unimpaired individuals in similar roles?
- Worth of Work Test: Is your work worth more than SGA when considering time, effort, and responsibilities?
You may still be found ineligible if your business doesn’t generate high income but your efforts suggest full-time capability.
Applying for SSDI While Working: Tips to Stay Eligible
- Keep Your Earnings Below the SGA Limit
- Monitor your gross income carefully. Even one month above the limit could result in denial.
- Document Your Job Duties and Schedule
- Provide evidence that your job is limited or supported due to your medical condition.
- Track Medical Records and Symptoms
- Maintain thorough documentation from your doctors showing how your condition limits your ability to work.
- Include IRWEs in Your Claim
- Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) can be deducted from your income to reduce your countable earnings.
- Examples: Transportation services, mobility aids, medications.
- Be Honest and Transparent with SSA
- Report all work activity truthfully. The SSA will verify your earnings using IRS and employer records.
Special Rules for SSI Applicants
SSI applicants must meet both SGA limitations and income/resource thresholds.
In 2025, the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 for couples. Income exclusions apply, such as:
- First $20 of income
- First $65 of earned income
- Half of remaining earned income
Example:
- Earned income: $1,000
- Exclusions: $20 + $65 = $85
- Remaining: $915 / 2 = $457.50
- Countable income: $457.50
This would reduce your SSI payment to approximately $485.50 per month, assuming no other income or deductions.
Trial Work Period (TWP) for SSDI Recipients
If you’re already approved for SSDI, the SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) to test your ability to work without losing benefits.
- In 2025, a trial work month is any month you earn over $1,110.
- You can work for up to nine months in a 60-month window while still receiving full benefits.
- After the TWP, you enter an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) lasting 36 months, during which your benefits may stop or restart depending on whether you exceed SGA.
Common Myths About Working and Disability
Myth #1: You cannot work at all while applying for disability.
- Fact: You can work below SGA and still be eligible.
Myth #2: Any earned income automatically disqualifies you.
- Fact: Only income above SGA or inconsistent reporting will harm your claim.
Myth #3: Volunteer work doesn’t count.
- Fact: SSA may evaluate volunteer work to determine your functional capacity.
Myth #4: You should quit your job before applying.
- Fact: This is not always necessary. Instead, understand how your job affects eligibility.
What Happens If You Exceed SGA After Filing?
If you’re working when you apply and your income later increases above the SGA limit, the SSA may:
- Deny your claim
- Suspend your benefits
- Request repayment if you received benefits in error
That’s why it’s critical to keep your income under the threshold and report changes immediately.
FAQs: Applying for Disability While Working
Q: Can I keep my job and still qualify for disability? A: Yes, as long as your income stays below the SGA limit and you can prove your disability prevents full-time work.
Q: Should I stop working before applying? A: Not necessarily. If you’re below SGA, you can apply. But every situation is different—speak with a disability attorney for guidance.
Q: What if my employer offers accommodations? A: Accommodations could support your claim, especially if they show you can only work due to assistance.
Q: Can I get benefits if I’m working two jobs? A: Possibly, but your combined income must remain under the SGA limit.
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for Disability While Working?
If you’re struggling to maintain employment due to a disability, it is possible—and often advisable—to apply for disability benefits even while working as long as you meet SSA’s SGA requirements.
Your success will largely depend on the severity of your condition, the quality of your medical evidence, and your ability to demonstrate that your employment is limited and unsustainable due to your health.
Need Help Applying for Disability While Working?
At Collins Price, we help clients across North Carolina navigate complex SSA regulations. If you’re unsure whether your current job disqualifies you from benefits, contact us for a free consultation on your claim.
