Blog

Can You Work While Applying for or Receiving SSDI/SSI Benefits?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages people to try working when possible through special incentives, as returning to work can improve quality of life without immediately losing all support. There are two federal programs which directly address disability benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The SSA uses Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) as the main benchmark. This number is the deciding factor as to whether you receive benefits or not. Currently, that number is $1,690 per month for non-blind individuals (gross earnings, before taxes or deductions) and $2,830 per month for blind individuals. These numbers change annually as they are adjusted for inflation.

What’s the Difference Between SSI and SSDI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are two separate federal programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provide monthly payments to people with disabilities. Many people in Melbourne, FL, and Brevard County qualify for one, the other, or even both (called “concurrent benefits”).

SSDI is directly related to how much you have worked and paid into the system in your lifetime. When you work, they removed some money from each paycheck, and you received Social Security work credits. SSI, on the other hand, is for disabled people regardless of work history. It is simply based on financial need alone.

SSDI payments are strongly correlated to how much you earned and how much you paid into the system. SSI isn’t within the same system and instead funded by the U.S. Treasury. It often covers people who never worked much (e.g., due to lifelong disability), homemakers, or those in non-covered jobs. All disabled people are eligible for one of these programs and some even can receive benefits from both.

Bottom Line

You can still work while applying for disability. But if you make more money than the threshold listed above you will not be eligible. If you’re in Melbourne or Brevard County and unsure which program fits your situation—or you’re applying and want help maximizing your chances—contact our office for a free consultation. We can review your work history, finances, and medical records to guide you.