Can You Work While Applying for SSDI?

In short, yes – individuals may work during the SSI/SDI application process. However: it must be within limits. Getting approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can take months and you might experience financial hardship if you stop working while the application is being processed. Ultimately, if you decide to work in this time, you pose a risk of reduced benefits (depending on income) or a denial entirely.

How Social Security Decides SSDI Qualifications

To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must be able to prove that you have a medical condition/disability that falls under the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition. SSA will only accept individuals who they deem totally and long-term disabled. If you meet the working length requirement (40 credits, 20 being earned within the last 10 years, and ending with the year your disability started) the SSA will evaluate you with a 5-step process.

Are You Currently Working?

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is generally evaluated under earnings guidelines stating that if you are working in 2025 and earning on average more than $1,620 per month, it is likely you will not be considered disabled. If you are not working, or working without achieving SGA, your application will move onto steps 2-5 under the Disability Determination Services (DDS) evaluation.

Is Your Condition Considered “Severe”?

To be deemed as severe, your condition must restrict your ability to perform basic work functionalities (e.g., lifting, walking, standing, sitting, or even remembering) for at least 12 months. If you are capable of such actions, you will not be considered eligible. If your condition interferes with basic work-related performance, you move on to step 3.

Is Your Condition Listed Under Disabling Conditions?

To evaluate the seriousness of disabilities that prevent someone from performing SGA, the SSA has a list of medical conditions, pertaining to the major body systems. If you find your condition is not listed, the severity of your condition will be compared to the severity to other conditions featured. If deemed qualified, move to step 4.

Can You Do the Work You Previously Performed?

At this step, the SSA will decide if your condition limits your past and current work performances. If deemed as non-limiting, you will not be qualified. If deemed limiting, proceed to step 5.

Are You Capable of Performing Other Types of Work?

If you are unable to perform the work you did previously, the SSA looks to see if there are other forms of work that your medical impairment(s) won’t interfere with. At this time, SSA considers your current medical condition, education level, age, previous work experience, and skills. If other options of work are not able to be performed because of your condition, you will be deemed eligible to receive disability benefits. If you can work another type of job, your claim will be denied.

It is important to keep in mind that if you choose to continue to work amidst your condition, it may affect SSA’s decision on your eligibility. If you feel that you need to work, explore limited hours and part-time opportunities, so long as you do not surpass the monthly income limit.

Talk With an SSDI Attorney if You Have Questions About Working While Applying

We understand the SSDI evaluation timeline can instill stress and be a difficult period for applicants. If you feel that your disability is causing a disruption to your work capabilities and have questions regarding navigating the process, contact the experienced team at Jan Dils, Attorney at Law. We can offer a free consultation where you can discuss your potential claim and get answers to some of your pressing questions.