Can You Work and Receive Social Security Disability?
Q: How long does a typical social security disability benefits claim take?
A: There are no deadlines within which the Social Security Administration has to process an application for social security disability insurance. Some cases take years to receive a decision. Decisions on other cases can be made within months. The norm for a social security disability case being reviewed for the first time is about ninety days. Numerous things can lengthen the duration for a decision on your particular case.Although you cannot control how long it takes for your social security disability claim to be processed, you can assure that certain factors will not delay it. The number one reason cases are held up is due to a wait for medical records. It is important, therefore, to assure that your complete medical records have been sent to the disability examiner handling your case. If a consultative exam is requested, make sure you do it. Contact your case manager if you need to cancel or postpone an appointment. A decision cannot be made regarding your claim, if the representative handling your application does not have thorough or updated information about your injury. Always confirm that your case manager has updated information regarding your address and phone numbers. And do not ignore notifications or informational requirements sent to you by social security. It is important to cooperate when your social security disability case is being reviewed. Lastly, it is smart to touch base with the disability manager handling your case from time to time to check the status of your file.
Q: Do you have to wait 5 months before you apply for social security disability benefits?
A: You should apply for social security disability benefits as soon as you become injured and know that your condition will prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You do not have to wait a certain period of time before you submit an application. The review process for a claim can be lengthy, so it is best to apply as soon as possible. There is a required waiting time of five months after the onset date of your injury before you can receive your first benefits check, but there is no waiting period for applying.
Q: Are you allowed to work part time when you are waiting for a decision regarding social security disability insurance?
A: You are allowed to be employed and receive social security disability benefits. The factor that influences your eligibility for benefits is not the employment itself, but how much income you make. If you make more than the SGA amount, you will not be eligible for benefits. The SGA limit for 2008 was $940 per month before taxes.