An experienced disability attorney may ensure that any applicant fully takes advantage of the rules intended to help individuals obtain eligibility for disability benefits. Do you have a potential disability claim? To improve your chances of meeting all of the requirements for the allowance of a claim (and avoiding the denial of benefits), retain the services of a qualified Kentucky Social Security Disability attorney.
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is a legal term that asks “how much is a worker earning.” The amount of monthly earnings that equals SGA is annually adjusted by Social Security. This amount is $1,170 for non-blind individuals and $1,950 for blind individuals in 2017.
As even laypersons know, there is seemingly always an exception to almost any rule. And there is an exception to the rule regarding SGA. This exception is a special circumstance is known as the “sheltered work” or “special environment” rule.
This usually applies to the scenario where an individual is offered some special opportunity, such as an accommodation to permit the person to continue working that does not typically exist for other employees of the same employer. Thus, even when an individual is receiving more monthly earnings than the SGA threshold, he or she may still be considered disabled and eligible for disability benefits.
Perhaps the employer gives a friend or relative an employment position with flexible hours to accommodate the individual’s disability. The employer may even treat the worker as an independent contractor working on a limited work schedule. These are just two examples of circumventing the guidelines regarding Substantial Gainful Activity. An experienced disability attorney may provide all of the necessary assistance in ensuring that every possible avenue to eligibility is considered.
One of the best ways to make sure you understand all of the technical, legal requirements associated with applying for disability benefits is to retain the services of an experienced, knowledgeable and qualified Social Security Disability attorney. Contact Sullivan Law Office today. We offer free consultations, so there is absolutely nothing to lose! We look forward to hearing from you. Call 888-587-0228 or visit us online.