You cannot work and file disability sorry I know we are living on my little check thank god my house is paid for I wouldn't jeprodize your case sounds like you should get a answer soon and you will get back pay. I know what you are going through we are in the same boat. Hang in there and God Bless

Not only can you not work now but with mental issues you probably will not be able to do much if any work in the future. I won on mainly mental issues and the judge went over a variety of work situations such as counting change or be around people. He asked me if I could do these types of things. When I said no I think that clinched it for me. But my lawyer also told me that if I tried to work I would probably lose my benefits on the next review if not sooner. My lawyer told me to make sure when I tried to work that it was something that I want to do for the rest of my life. I know it stinks as I went from a $60,000 job to 0 for 3+ years. We begged borrowed and did whatever to survive. But if you work you are done as far as ssdi goes.

Yes you can try to work, this helps them understand how much you can physically and mentally handle. Here is a link:

http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/app/answ...or%20diability

Renee, it's kind of a trick question, in my opinion.

As legalmania posted, SSA's official stance is that you MAY qualify even if you are currently working, but I think it's important to consider their definition of disability....the inability to engage in any substantial gainful work activity http://www.socialsecurity.gov/redboo...sability.htm#6 . I think most jobs that contribute enough to your household finances would be a red flag to them that you are able to work.

Truthfully, the long waiting period for approval is financially devasting for many people on SSDI. Those who "can't wait" and go back to SGA, in my opinion, just proved that they are not totally disabled. Remember SSDI is for those who CAN"T do SGA, not for those who have a physical or mental impairment that would find it easier if they didn't have to work.

SSA's definition of SGA is: Work is “substantial” if it involves doing significant physical or mental activities or a combination of both. For work activity to be substantial, it does not need to be performed on a full-time basis. Work activity performed on a part-time basis may also be substantial gainful activity.

If you were only able to do a job for a few hours and it was menial in nature, that might pass their standard.

Another thing to consider is if you try to go back to work and it doesn't work out, because you are unable to fulfill the job requirememnts for long because of your disability, that MIGHT help your claim.

I understand this is a tough spot to be in.....best of luck working through this.

Just to add,

I understand the financial crunch and medical debt makes getting further treatment difficult, but current medical records, taking meds as ordered, etc is CRITICAL in getting SSDI approval. I know adding more debt isn't appealing, but please find some way to keep up with your health needs so that you don't have further deterioration.

Does your town or county offer free mental health assistance to those in need ?