If you work for yourself and become unable to work due to a physical or mental disability, you’re not alone in wondering: Can you get disability if you are self-employed?
Many freelancers, independent contractors, and small business owners believe that disability benefits are only available to traditional employees. But the truth is that self-employed workers can get disability through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
At Grundy Disability Group, we work with people from all walks of life to help them secure the benefits they deserve. In this post, we’ll break down how SSDI and self-employment work together, what you need to qualify, and how benefits can provide a lifeline during tough times.
Can People Who Are Self-Employed Get Disability Benefits?
As stated above, the short answer is yes, self-employed individuals can collect Social Security Disability (SSD). All workers can get disability through the SSDI program if they’ve paid into Social Security and meet the medical and work history requirements.
People who are self-employed get Social Security when they retire and can collect SSD if needed. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must:
- Have a qualifying medical condition
- Be unable to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
- Have earned enough work credits through Social Security-covered employment (including self-employment)
- Paid into Social Security through taxes
Self-employed people pay self-employment taxes (SECA taxes) that include contributions to Social Security and Medicare.
How To Qualify for SSDI as a Self-Employed Person
If you’re self-employed, qualifying for disability benefits involves showing:
- A serious, long-term disability that meets the SSA’s medical criteria
- Proof that your condition prevents you from doing any full-time work
- A track record of paying Social Security taxes, which earns you work credits
The good news is that many self-employed disability applicants do qualify, especially with proper documentation and legal support.
Can a Self-Employed Person Get Disability If They Have Irregular Income?
Yes, but it can be complicated. Unlike traditional employees, the income of self-employed people may fluctuate from month to month or include business expenses that lower taxable income.
If your net income drops below the SGA threshold because you’re unable to work, the SSA may still find that you’re performing SGA if you:
- Continue to manage clients or employees
- Perform key tasks that keep your business running
- Invest time in marketing, accounting, or product creation
This is why it’s crucial to demonstrate that your role has significantly changed, or stopped altogether, due to your condition.
SSDI and Self-Employment: How Disability Benefits Can Help
If you’re self-employed and disabled, SSDI can help cover daily living expenses and medical care. Some of the benefits include:
- Monthly income support while you’re unable to work
- Access to Medicare after 24 months on SSDI
- Back pay from the date your disability began (up to 12 months retroactive)
For self-employed workers, these benefits can help preserve financial stability while they focus on their health.
What If You Want To Return to Work?
Many people worry that applying for disability benefits means giving up on working forever. That’s not the case. The SSA offers work incentives and the Ticket to Work Program for SSDI recipients who want to try working again. For example:
- You can test your ability to work for up to 9 months without losing your benefits
- You may be able to deduct certain disability-related work expenses, like special equipment or transportation costs, which can lower your “countable” income
This flexibility makes SSDI a practical option even if you’re unsure what your work future looks like.
Grundy Disability Group Can Help
Navigating disability and self-employment is challenging. While a self-employed individual can file for benefits, the road can be confusing without the right guidance. The SSD claims process is already complex, and it’s even more so when your income is irregular or unique.
At Grundy Disability Group, we help self-employed individuals build strong SSDI applications. We understand the unique challenges freelancers and entrepreneurs face. At our firm, we’ll walk you through every step of the application process, from your initial claim to appeals if needed.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or struggling with the SSDI process after injury or illness, don’t wait. Contact Grundy Disability Group today to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help you understand your rights, properly file your claim, and fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
