Can You Work While Waiting for SSDI?

Can you work while waiting for SSDI? Learn the rules about employment during the SSDI application process, income limits, and how working may impact your claim.

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a long and stressful process. Many applicants wonder: Can you work while waiting for SSDI? The answer is yes, but with important limitations. The Social Security Administration (SSA) closely monitors income and work activity during the application process, and working too much can jeopardize your claim. Understanding the rules can help you avoid mistakes that might delay or deny your benefits.

How the SSA Defines Work While Waiting for SSDI

When the SSA evaluates your claim, it looks at whether you are able to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,550 per month (or $2,590 per month if you are blind).

If you earn more than the SGA limit, your claim may be denied because SSA will conclude you can support yourself through work.
If you earn less than the SGA limit, you may still qualify, but your hours, job duties, and medical condition will be considered.

This means working while waiting for SSDI is allowed, but income and activity must stay within SSA guidelines.

Risks of Employment While SSDI Is Pending

Although you may technically work below the SGA level, there are risks involved:

Hours worked matter. Even if your income is low, working many hours can make it appear you are capable of full-time employment.
Medical consistency matters. If your medical records do not match your work activity, SSA may question the severity of your disability.
Failed work attempts can help. Sometimes, starting and stopping jobs due to your health shows that you cannot maintain employment, which may actually support your case.

If you are asking, “Can I work while waiting for SSDI decision?” the safest approach is to work very limited hours and always stay under the SGA threshold.

Best Practices for Working During the SSDI Application Process

If you must work while your case is pending, here are some crucial steps:

Track your income carefully and ensure it stays under the SGA amount.
Be honest with SSA and report any employment promptly.
Keep detailed records of your work attempts, hours, and how your medical condition affects your job.
Talk to a disability attorney to understand how your work may impact your SSDI claim.

Following these steps ensures that your work and SSDI claim do not conflict and reduces the chance of denial.

How Culbertson, Jacobs & Laboda Can Help

At Culbertson, Jacobs & Laboda, we know that applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming — especially when you are unsure whether you can continue working during the process. Our attorneys provide:

Personalized case reviews to determine if your current work activity could affect your claim.
Guidance on SSA rules so you do not accidentally exceed income limits or jeopardize your eligibility.
Support during appeals, since most SSDI claims are denied at the initial stage and require persistence to win.
Clear communication with the SSA on your behalf, helping you avoid paperwork errors or reporting mistakes.

Our goal is to give you peace of mind, knowing that your claim is in experienced hands. Whether you are at the start of the SSDI application or facing an appeal, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Bottom Line

Yes, employment while SSDI is pending is allowed, but strict income limits and careful reporting are required. Working too much can hurt your case, while demonstrating that your disability prevents sustained employment may actually strengthen it.

If you are uncertain about your situation, the attorneys at Culbertson, Jacobs & Laboda can help you make the best decisions while protecting your claim.

Can You Work While Waiting for SSDI?