Can My Social Security Disability Claim be Denied Because I Earn Too Much Money?

Yes! The Social Security Administration uses a 5 Step sequential evaluation to determine your entitlement to benefits.

Significant Gainful Activity

At Step 1, the Social Security Administration determines whether or not you are working and, if so, whether or not that work constitutes “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). In 2013, if you earned more than $1,040 per month, you have earned too much money to be considered disabled. Income from investments does not count towards SGA. This figure is adjusted annually.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

If you are not insured for disability purposes, you can apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) which is a disability benefit for low income people. The Social Security Administration uses the same 5 Step sequential evaluation to determine your entitlement to SSI benefits however, the upper income limit for earned and unearned income combined is approximately $1,500 per month. Any time your income is over $730 to $800, your SSI payment will be reduced using a complicated formula.

You can learn more about your rights to Social Security Disability benefits and whether your work activity constitutes SGA by contacting Social Security Disability attorney Nancy Cavey, who can help you get the Social Security Disability benefits that you deserve if you live in the Tampa Bay area.

Contact her today at 727.477.3263 for complimentary 30 minute consultation to learn more about your rights to Social Security Disability benefits.