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.