How does work affect my Social Security Disability benefits?
Your work activity, or lack thereof, has a direct impact on your Social Security Disability benefits in California. If you are disabled, you are limited to a certain amount of money that you can earn from gainful activity without jeopardizing your benefits. This amount is called “substantial gainful activity” or SGA. It is currently set at $1,260 a month for 2017, and any income you earn above this amount could potentially disqualify you from receiving benefits. If your Social Security Disability benefits are based on your work record, you may be able to continue working for a certain period of time, but eventually you will need to stop working completely in order to continue receiving benefits. However, if you are self-employed or working in a sheltered workshop, your earnings may not count against substantial gainful activity limits. You may also be able to take part in “work incentives” which are designed to help you transition back into the regular workforce. These incentives enable you to continue receiving benefits even while working and taking part in work-related activities. Under these programs, your earnings are not counted against the substantial gainful activity limits. It is important to note that Social Security Disability benefits are not intended to replace lost income from work. If your disability prevents you from working, you may be eligible for other forms of government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income, or SSI. It is always best to speak with a qualified Social Security Disability attorney to determine which option is best for you.
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