From our FAQ section

My doctor says I will never be able to do my usual occupation and I don’t know anything else; shouldn’t that be enough for me to win?

The SSA will determine if you can still do your past relevant work by examining all jobs you have done for the past 15 years. But, even if you cannot do your past work, you may still not win if the SSA determines that you should be able to do “other work” considering your age, education, and work experience. The SSA is responsible for providing evidence demonstrating that “other work” exists in significant numbers in the national economy that you can do.

 

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Social Security Disability Law Office, P.A.

Attorney, Robert C. Gray

Can I work and still be eligible for disability benefits?

Not usually, but the SSA will determine if you are engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) in making their decision. SGA is work activity that involves doing significant physical or mental activities. Generally, if  an individual has earnings from employment or selfemployment above a specific level set out in the regulations, it is presumed that he/she has demonstrated the ability to engage in SGA. If the individual  engages in SGA, he/she is not disabled.