You can get help understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and self-employment from a skilled attorney. Many self-employed individuals qualify for disability benefits if they become unable to work.
A Social Security Disability lawyer can tell you more about the process of applying for benefits if you work for yourself. An attorney can also assist you if the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your initial benefits application.
What You Need to Know About SSDI and Self-Employment
An attorney can give you the information you need to fully understand the complicated nature of getting SSDI coverage as a self-employed individual. You can learn more about:
Eligibility to Get SSDI When Self-Employed
You may qualify for SSDI benefits even if you’re self-employed. In order to receive these benefits, you may have paid into the Social Security system, and you must have a qualifying disability that will stop you from working for an extended period.
When self-employed, you pay into the Social Security system through self-employment taxes (SECA). You may have also previously paid into the system through payroll taxes (FICA) if you previously worked for an employer.
The SSA also offers lists of eligible disabilities. If you meet both of these requirements, you could qualify for benefits.
The Value of Your SSDI Benefits
The amount of benefits you receive from the SSA will depend on your pre-disability earnings and how much money you paid into the system. An attorney can estimate your monthly benefits after assessing your financial situation and work history.
How Long Can You Receive SSDI Benefits?
You may continue to receive SSDI benefits for the entire time that you qualify as disabled. Some individuals remain disabled for the rest of their lives after a major injury or illness.
Note that if you recover enough to return to work, the SSA expects you to resume your self-employment or to find another career. Once you return to work, you will stop receiving disability benefits.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
Can You Continue Working While on SSDI?
Generally, you cannot work while drawing on SSDI benefits. The SSA limits the income you can bring in every month while on disability benefits, and if you earn too much, it will result in the loss of your benefits.
Some self-employed individuals want to try to keep working while drawing benefits. They often hope that they can stay below the income cut-off, but bringing in any money at all can make it significantly difficult, if not impossible, to get and keep the benefits you need.
You should always speak to a lawyer about your situation before you return to work after sustaining a disabling condition.
Proving That You Are Incapable of Working While Self-Employed
Proving that you cannot continue to work when you’re self-employed can pose unique challenges. You can prepare for this process by:
Keeping Records Related to Your Work
You should maintain detailed records about your:
- Expenses
- Income
- Taxes
You should keep records even before you intend to apply for SSDI. Having this information on hand can establish a baseline for your business before you face a disability.
Keeping Information About the Work That You Do
It’s in your best interests to keep track of all the roles you fulfill in your business. You should also track the number of hours you work every week. This information may play an important role in helping you get the benefits you deserve.
Keeping Information About Your Expenses
You may also need information about the expenses you’ve faced that relate to your business. Additionally, any information you have about funding for your business could become relevant when applying for benefits.
You can speak to a lawyer to learn more about preparing to apply for benefits when you’re self-employed.
What Counts as Self-Employment for the SSA?
The SSA may consider you self-employed if you own your own business, work as a contractor, or do freelance work. As you can see, a range of activities will qualify as self-employment when it comes to applying for disability benefits.
You should always reach out to a skilled legal team for help if you’re unsure about your employment classification. A lawyer can quickly review your situation and help you determine the steps you need to take if you need benefits after facing a disability.
Talk to Us About Your SSDI Application or Appeal
Do you have more questions about SSDI and self-employment? You can get the answers you need from our team at Marc Whitehead & Associates. Our legal team has over 120 years of combined legal experience, and we only handle disability claims.
We can assess your situation, determine if you qualify for benefits, and work tirelessly to assist you with your application. If the SSA denies your initial request for benefits, we can help with your appeal.
We always prioritize the needs of our clients, and we’re ready to provide the personalized support you deserve, so reach out now for help.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
