The Social Security Administration follows a five step evaluation.

Are you working.

Are you is “working” initiates this process. If you are working the case will most likely be turned down.

What is working?

“Working” is a defined as “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA) . In 2009 earning at least $980 a month means you are working. But be careful — this is liberally construed AGAINST you.

$980 a month in income means technically the governmental cannot deny your disability claim at step 1 of the 5-step evaluation process.

Part-time signals to the Administrative Law Judge THAT YOU CAN WORK.

Bottom Line: If you work after you have filed a social security disability claim uses this as a test to determine whether you can work full time. Then try full time. If you cannot work full time fall back to part time.