How Can You Support Yourself While Waiting For Disability Benefits?

When applying for disability benefits, you probably have many immediate concerns that leave you uncertain about the future. Will the government approve your application? How long will it take to start receiving benefits? While you wait, is it possible to work? How can you support yourself and your family?

You May Be Able to Work, but Income Limits Will Restrict Your Options.

The Social Security Administration offers benefits to people who cannot perform “substantial gainful activity” to support themselves. This means that most applicants must have an income of less than $1,260 a month. This often means that applicants can work part time during the application process, but full-time work will often bring in too much income and jeopardize their ability to receive benefits.

Some Support Programs May Help You Meet Your Daily Needs.

With the cost of housing, food and medical care, it can be difficult for many people to provide for themselves and their families before the government approves their benefits. Thankfully, the government offers other forms of assistance that can help meet these everyday needs. This includes assistance to low-income families with children through Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF) and assistance for purchasing food through the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP).

If you wonder how you can meet your needs today while maintaining your eligibility for disability benefits in the future, you may want to speak to an attorney during the application process. They can guide you through these income restrictions and help protect your eligibility throughout the application process.