Not so long ago, we addressed the four very specific questions that Social Security will ask when you are filing a claim for disability benefits. These questions relate to your ability to continue to work.
- Can You Still Do Your Most Recent Work?
- Can You Do Any Other Work You Did Recently?
- Do You Have Skills That Transfer to Easier Work?
- Are There Any Other Jobs In The U.S. That You Could Perform With Re-Training?
We received a lot of response on this blog, with many people being surprised that you will not be considered disabled if you can perform any easier, simpler work that exists in the U.S.
The objection that was raised again and again was this–
Taking an easier job may mean you will earn less money than you did at your last job!
This is often the first reaction that people bring up once they understand the factors that Social Security examines when deciding whether or not you are unable to work.
It is absolutely true that taking another job may mean a reduction in income. However, SSDI was created to provide income to those who are unable to take care of themselves, not make up for a cut in pay.
A difference in pay rate is not a factor in determining disability, unless you can’t earn the base income level, or Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
The Most Ridiculous Example Ever: Joe Theismann
Joe Theismann had spent 12 years in the NFL, won the Super Bowl, and had earned millions of dollars. Then, he had an on-the-job accident and broke his leg during a game so violently that people in the stadium and those watching the game at home on TV could hear the break.
Let’s go through the four questions when we consider his circumstance.
The First Question: Can You Still Do Your Most Recent Work?
- No. Theismann could no longer play professional football and wouldn’t be able to within 12 months of his injury.
The Second Question: Can You Do Any Other Work You Did Recently?
- No. During the five years before his injury, Theismann had held no other job than a quarterback in professional football.
The Third Question: Do You Have Skills That Transfer to Easier Work?
- Yes. During his job as a professional quarterback he had developed transferable skills that would allow him to be employed as a sportscaster, analyst, or coach.
The Fourth Question: Are There Any Other Jobs In The U.S. That You Could Perform With Re-Training?
- Yes. Theismann recovered from his physical injuries and suffered no mental impairment. He was also only 36 when he was injured, with plenty of time to adapt to another job.
The conclusion is that Joe Theismann could be employed in a different job (although he would probably be making less money in that position than he did being an NFL quarterback) and therefore would not qualify for disability benefits.
Yes, he would be taking a job with a lower salary. However, Theismann was still capable of working to earn a living, by taking another position that required less physical exertion. Taking a desk job would likely result in a reduction of income, but he was still employable and still able to work.
SSDI does not pay the difference between your old wage and a new, lower wage.
SSDI was created to provide financial help to people who can’t work any longer due to their health, not make up for a pay cut. A difference in income is not a factor in the disability determination process.
If your ability to work has been affected by injury or illness, contact Disability Advocates. We can show you your options and help you through the process of filing for disability benefits.