WHAT IS AN “UNSUCCESSFUL WORK ATTEMPT” IN A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY CLAIM?

Can I work while my social security disability application is pending?

If you have not worked for one year and your Application is still pending at any level, you can try to work. There are cases where people return to work and find that they cannot continue to work because of their impairment(s).  If you try to work but have to stop working within 6 months due to your impairments, Social Security will consider this period an “unsuccessful work attempt”.  This work attempt will not affect your Application for disability benefits. With regard to an application for SSI benefits, any money earned will be deducted from the amount of retroactive benefits you may be entitled to for the months you worked.