I speak with people all of the time who are interested in getting Social Security disability benefits, but who are currently working. Typically, the person is really struggling with keeping their job because of health problems. I am always sympathetic, but what I tell folks is that you absolutely cannot work if you want disability benefits.
Now, the law does technically allow for you to be found disabled if your monthly earnings are less than what is called “substantial gainful activity (SGA).” In 2020, that amount is $2,110.00. But in my experience, even if your earnings are less than SGA, you will always lose your case if you are working.
What should I do if I want to get Social Security disability benefits and I am currently working?
First, you need to stop working (if you can work, then you should do that instead of applying for Social Security disability). From there, it is critically important that you get ongoing treatment from your medical and other providers so that 1) you get the treatment that you need and 2) develop favorable medical evidence for your disability case.
If you do not have health insurance, or treating relationships with the appropriate providers, then you need to address that ASAP. This is also necessary for winning your Social Security disability case, because without it you will not have the medical evidence that you need to prove that you are disabled.
Finally, everything in this post applies equally to people seeking SSI benefits.
At Warner & Warner, PLLC, our goal is to obtain the Social Security disability and SSI benefits that our clients deserve – and in the highest amount possible. We only get paid if our client wins the case, so you can rest assured that we take this job very seriously.