Question:
I’m going to apply for disability, because my employer put me on very limited hours, cut my pay, and said my bad back meant I couldn’t do my former job anymore at all. Should I just quit to bolster the claim of disability?

Answer:
No, you should continue to work and explain in full on your application for disability why you cannot perform the duties of your former position, which has resulted in a cut in your working hours and your income. Social Security will allow you to make a certain amount of money even if you are applying for, or receiving, disability benefits. There is a maximum amount you can earn from “Substantial Gainful Activity,” however, and that is currently $1,000 every month. This is income before taxes are withheld from your paycheck. If you earn more than this, Social Security will not consider you to be disabled for their purposes. Also, remember that if you are approved for disability, you are entitled to a trial work period of up to nine months, during which you will not lose eligibility no matter how much you earn. If you are not able to keep on the job for 90 days, Social Security will call it an unsuccessful work attempt and keep your benefits coming.