Can You Still Get Disability Benefits if You’re Working Part-Time?

Many people believe that once you start working, even part-time, you automatically forfeit your right to disability benefits. Fortunately, that’s not always true. If you’re recovering from an injury or managing a long-term medical condition, you may still qualify for partial or residual disability benefits, depending on your insurance policy or Social Security eligibility. A knowledgeable Philadelphia disability lawyer can help you understand how working while disabled may affect your benefits and ensure you’re not missing out on compensation you’re entitled to. Knowing the rules and getting proper legal guidance can make all the difference.

If you live or work in Philadelphia and rely on disability benefits to stay financially stable, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Residual Disability Benefits?

Residual disability benefits, also called partial disability benefits, are payments made when you are no longer totally disabled but still can’t return to work full-time or at your previous income level. This is common for individuals who resume working part-time or in a modified role after an illness or injury.

For example, if you worked full-time at Jefferson Health in Center City and now can only manage a few hours a day due to chronic fatigue syndrome, you may still receive benefits to help make up the difference in lost wages. These benefits recognize that your earning capacity is reduced, even if you’re not completely unable to work.

To qualify for residual disability benefits, most private long-term disability policies require that:

• You were previously totally disabled and are now transitioning back into work
• Your income has decreased due to your disability
• You are under the care of a physician and following prescribed treatment

Can You Work Part-Time and Still Qualify for Disability?

Yes, it’s possible to receive disability benefits while working part-time, especially if:

• Your hours are limited because of physical or mental impairments
• Your current job duties are significantly reduced compared to your pre-disability role
• You’re earning less than a certain threshold, often determined by your LTD policy or Social Security rules

For example, a warehouse worker in Northeast Philly who is recovering from a back injury may only be able to handle desk duties on a reduced schedule. If their income drops significantly, part-time disability benefits may cover the shortfall.

Social Security Disability Insurance also allows some level of work under its trial work period and substantial gainful activity rules. In 2025, earning more than $1,550 per month (non-blind individuals) may disqualify someone from SSDI, but working under that limit may still be permitted.

Things to Keep in Mind When Working While Disabled

If you’re considering returning to part-time work while receiving disability benefits, it’s crucial to understand how your earnings and work activity could affect your eligibility. Here are some tips:

• Keep detailed records: Document your hours, income, job duties, and any accommodations made by your employer.
• Review your policy: Each disability policy is different. Some may have stricter definitions of “disabled” or specific income reduction formulas.

And if you’re navigating South Broad Street to your job near City Hall or working part-time in a retail shop in Fishtown, it doesn’t matter where your job is; what matters is how your condition limits your capacity to work.

When to Contact a Philadelphia Disability Lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson

Trying to balance part-time work and disability benefits can be complicated. Insurance companies may look for reasons to reduce or terminate your benefits. Social Security may challenge whether your work counts as substantial gainful activity. You need to make sure your rights are protected and that you’re not jeopardizing the support you rely on.

If you’re unsure how working while disabled might affect your benefits, or if you’re struggling to secure residual disability or part-time disability benefits, it’s time to speak with an experienced Philadelphia disability lawyer. Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson at (215) 731-9900 to get the guidance you need to maintain your benefits while rebuilding your work life.