For many, applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the review process can be a time-consuming endeavor. An applicant may wonder whether they need to work while they wait for a decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or if they can support themselves on their savings.
It is important that anyone applying for SSDI benefits understands how employment will affect their application and the potential benefits they may receive. If you have questions about your application or your employment, it is always beneficial to talk to the attorneys at the Khaki Law Firm.
Applying for SSDI while Employed
Generally, you will need to leave your job before applying for SSDI. The SSA will assume that your employment status means that you are not disabled or do not require the disability benefits you claim eligibility for. Even if you are working through pain or discomfort, the SSA considers this as an ability to continue with employment and would be unlikely to approve your request for disability benefits.
If you chose to remain employed or seek additional income, there are SSDI specific stipulations you must keep in mind. For example, you cannot earn more than what is considered “substantial gainful activity.” Under SSA guidelines for 2019, this amount is about $1,220 per month.
If you reduce your hours to make less than this amount per month, you could apply for SSDI with little to no hassle about your employment status. However, if you work a substantial number of hours, such as 25-30 but make less than $1,220 per month, the SSA has the discretion to say that you have the ability to work and therefore do not need disability benefits.
Ultimately, the SSA is the one to decide if you your employment or lack thereof makes you eligible for disability insurance. If you do not believe you have the financial means to support yourself without employment while awaiting an SSDI decision, you may want to reach out to an attorney from our firm to assess your situation and the resources available for you.
Other Forms of Financial Support
Some may not be able to go without a steady income while they apply for or wait for an SSDI decision. With medical costs, housing bills, and living expenses, a person may want to seek out additional financial support while they await their SSDI decision.
There are local, state, and federal support programs available for individuals who need financial assistance while awaiting a decision on their disability insurance claim. A few of them are:
- Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Short-term or temporary disability benefits (State dependent)
If you have questions on the financial support offered near you, the Department of Social Services or a local family social services office can be of assistance. Your friends, family, and communities may also be invaluable resources to you during this time.
Contact an Attorney Today
While it does take a certain amount of time for your SSDI claim to be approved, you may benefit from the experience and expertise of a knowledgeable disability attorney throughout the process. The amount of time the SSA takes in reviewing your claim may be out of your hands, but with legal counsel, you can ensure that everything is in order before you submit your application.
If you or someone you love was recently disabled or wants advice on the SSDI benefits they are receiving, it may be beneficial for you to reach out to our dedicated legal team. The attorneys at the Khaki Law Firm could be by your side from the beginning of the application process to ensuring that the benefits you finally receive are right for you.
