Effects of an Unsuccessful Work Attempt on Your Disability Benefits

An unsuccessful work attempt refers to a period of time in which you attempted to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) but had to reduce your hours or stop working completely because of your disability. This period of work can be used to determine various aspects of your Social Security disability benefits.

What is considered an unsuccessful work attempt?

Any period of work at the SGA level that lasts 6 months or less and ends as a result of your disability or the removal of conditions that allow you to engage in SGA is considered an unsuccessful work attempt.

The "removal of conditions" refers to the elimination of any special conditions-such as additional equipment or specific work hours-that allow you to perform your job.

Substantial Gainful Activity Decision

A substantial gainful activity decision is part of the approval process for your Social Security disability benefits.
SGA is used as an initial factor in determining eligibility for disability benefits and can later play a role if you return to work and complete a trial work period.

SGA is only a factor during the initial application phase of your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits claim. Once you are past the initial claim stage, any unsuccessful work attempt is not considered in figuring your SSI payments.

An SGA decision may apply at any time your SSDI benefits are evaluated.

Benefits of an Unsuccessful Work Attempt

There is no harm to your Social Security disability benefits if you attempt SGA and result in an unsuccessful work attempt. The wages you earn during an unsuccessful work attempt are not counted in your SGA decision.

If you are in an extended period of eligibility, an unsuccessful work attempt is considered as part of your SGA decision for the months up to and including the month in which your disability payments cease.

Contacting a New York Social Security Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim, and then contact a Bronx disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building a strong disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.









Decker Decker Dito & Internicola, LLP the New York Social Security Disability Law Firm.  If you have suffered an injury or illness and unable to work, contact Social Security Disability Lawyer Frank J. Dito, Jr., Esq. at 800. 976. 4904.  Mr. Dito is an experienced trial and disability lawyer who represents disabled and injured individuals and their families in getting the benefits that they deserve. Frank is the author of "A Lawyers Guide to Car Insurance", the publisher of the "New York Injury Law Blog" and he is a frequent speaker regarding the recovery of benefits and the preservation of rights resulting from accidents and work place injuries. If you or a family member has a question about disability benefits contact disability lawyer Frank J. Dito, Jr. to discuss your legal rights and how he can assist you in obtaining the benefits you deserve.


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IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this website is provided for general educational purposes only, should not be relied on as legal advice and does not serve to create an attorney client relationship. In utilizing this website you acknowledge that there is no attorney client relationship between you and Frank J. Dito, Esq. and that the information contained on this site does not and cannot serve as a replacement for the competent legal advice of a licensed attorney in your state. The content of this website is subject to the Copyright of its author, Frank J. Dito, Esq. 

 



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