If you are unable to work because of a medical problem, you may qualify for payments from the Social Security Disability Insurance program. This program was put in place to help people who have worked enough to qualify and who meet the medical disability qualifications. Beyond those two requirements, you also face limits on how much money you can earn to qualify and once you begin receiving payments from the program. If you are in the process of applying for SSDI, read on for more information about how much you can earn and still receive benefits.

Unlike the Social Security Administration's other program for people who are disabled, the Supplemental Security Disability program, SSDI doesn't place limits on what you own. There are, however, limits on how much money you earn, which is not surprising considering that this program is aimed at people who are unable to work due to their disability.

Substantial Gainful Activity

Before you are even considered for approval based on your medical disability, you must show that you are earning less than $1,090.00 a month ($1,820.00 for blind applicants), and after you are approved you must never make more than that amount. The SSA refers to the work that you are unable to do as a result of being disabled as substantial gainful activity (SGA). This amount can change from year to year and is generally based on the average cost of living.

The SSA goes further in determining whether or not you are preforming SGA and also looks at the work you are doing. For example, if you can find part-time work doing the same job you were too disabled to do full time, the SSA will likely discontinue your benefits. However, if you are unable to do a job that required standing, but are now able to earn some money by doing a more sedentary job, like phone customer service work, the SSA would likely not consider that to be SGA, as long as you are not earning more that $1,090.00 a month.

Trial Work Period

The SSA does have a program that encourages claimants to return to doing some work called a trial work period. This program allows you to test your ability to work without losing benefits, as long as certain conditions are met. You can only participate in the trial work period for a maximum of 9 months during a rolling period. You can earn up to $770.00 a month in addition to your regular SSDI benefits during this period.

The rules surrounding Social Security can be complex, so consulting with a Social Security attorney for more information may help clear up any confusion on the issue of substantial gainful employment and most importantly, advise you how to get approved and receive the benefits for which you are entitled.

To talk to an attorney about your options, contact a law firm such as Ball & Ferrari.