Can You Earn Any Money While on Social Security Disability?

The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of aid to disabled Americans: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. Although both programs place limits on the amount of income you can receive while receiving aid, both allow a certain amount.

Definition of Disability

• The Social Security Administration considers you to be disabled if you develop a medical condition that prevents you from working enough to support yourself. If you make more than $1,000 a month, you will likely not be considered disabled, according to ssa.gov. Also, your condition must be terminal or expected to last more than 12 months.

Supplemental Security Income

• Supplemental Security Income is a program that provides financial aid to disabled Americans of all ages. You can have limited income while on the program but must be able to prove to the SSA, which takes cases one at a time, that you cannot afford necessary food, shelter, and clothing.

Social Security Disability Insurance

• Disability Insurance is available to Americans who have paid into the Social Security system through taxes. You must earn 40 credits to receive disability benefits at retirement age. Younger workers need fewer credits. For example, a 31-year-old worker only needs 20 credits. You receive one credit for every $1,120 of income you make over your lifetime.