Can I return to work while getting Social Security disability benefits?
Yes, you can return to work while receiving Social Security disability benefits. There are special rules to help you get back to work without jeopardizing your benefits. You may be eligible for a nine month trial work period to test whether you can work.
What are the eligibility requirements to get Social Security disability benefits?
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked long enough in jobs covered by Social Security (usually 10 years). Then, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability.
In general, we pay monthly benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more, or who have a condition expected to end in death. The disability must be so severe the worker cannot work, considering age, education and experience. If you think you may be eligible to receive disability benefits and would like to apply, you can use the online application.
Applying online for disability benefits offers several advantages:
- You can start your disability claim immediately. There is no need to wait for an appointment;
- You can apply from the convenience of your home, or on any computer; and
- You can avoid trips to a Social Security office, saving you time and money.
How long does it take to get a decision after I apply for disability benefits?
It takes at least three-to-five months to get a decision on your disability application. The time frame can vary depending on:
- The nature of your disability;
- How quickly your medical evidence from your doctor or other medical source is received;
- Whether it is necessary to send you for a medical examination; and
If you would like to apply for disability benefits, you can the online application.
Applying online for disability benefits offers several advantages:
- You can start your disability claim immediately. There is no need to wait for an appointment;
- You can apply from the convenience of your home, or on any computer; and
- You can avoid trips to a Social Security office, saving you time and money.
How do Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments differ?
The two programs are financed differently. Employment taxes primarily finance Social Security retirement, survivors and disability insurance benefits. Generally, Social Security pays benefits to eligible workers and their families, based on the worker’s earnings. Meanwhile, general taxes fund the SSI program, which serves the needy. SSI eligibility depends largely on limited income and resources.
What is substantial gainful activity?
The term “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) is used to describe a level of work activity and earnings. Work is “substantial” if it involves doing significant physical or mental activities or a combination of both. If you earn more than a certain amount and are doing productive work, we generally consider that you are engaging in substantial gainful activity. You would not be eligible for disability benefits.
Can children with disabilities get Social Security benefits?
A child with a disability age 18 or older may get Social Security benefits when a parent gets retirement or disability benefits. The child also can get benefits if a parent dies. The child’s disability must have begun before age 22.
What is the Ticket To Work Program?
The Ticket To Work Program can help Social Security beneficiaries go to work, get a good job that may lead to a career, save more money, and become financially independent, all while they keep their health coverage. Ticket to Work is a free and voluntary program that gives beneficiaries real choices that can help them create and lead better lives. Individuals who receive Social Security benefits because of a disability probably already qualify for the program.
How do I appeal a decision on my application for disability benefits?
When a decision is made on your application, you will receive a letter explaining it. If you do not agree with the decision, you can appeal. That is, you can ask that your case be reviewed again. You must appeal within 60 days from the date you got the decision letter. You can:
For more information on these questions or others, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.