STILL WORKING BUT NEED DISABILITY?

There are many people still trying to work who are not really able to work. The problem is, these individuals cannot qualify for a Social Security disability benefit while they are still working. Social Security's regulations are firm in keeping working people off disability benefits.

So, what can you do? You can't afford to stop working and have no income for months, while Social Security decides if they will give you a benefit. Here are some options to consider:\

OPTION 1: Cut back to part-time work. The regulations allow a person to file for disability benefits while working, if they are not engaged in "substantial gainful activity." In 2021, this means you must be earning less than $1,310 per month in gross wages or self-employment income. But working below that amount will not disqualify a disability claim.

OPTION 2: Check out your employer's group disability insurance. Many employers carry Short Term Disability (STD) and/or Long Term Disability (LTD), which covers their employees against disability. You could be covered and not even know it. If your doctor will support the fact that you are medically unable to continue in your present job, you may qualify for disability benefits through your employer's insurance plan. These benefits do not restrict or prevent Social Security disability claims. And you can have an income while you navigate the slow, uncertain waters of Social Security.

OPTION 3: Stop working altogether. This is not an option that everyone can afford and it's risky. What if you never get approved for Social Security disability benefits? It's a real possibility. Also, most claimants from 6 months to 18 months to get SSDI benefits approved. If you are financially prepared to wait out Social Security, and you accept that there are no guarantees from Social Security, this could be an option.

The option you never have is to keep working full-time (earning over $1,310 per month) and filing for Social Security disability at the same time. Federal law does not permit this.

My office can explain the disability process and help direct you to possible solutions. If we represent you, there's never a fee until you win your claim and collect past due benefits. Never an upfront cost of any kind. Contact us at (256) 799-0297.