Veterans lawyer, a great post
Social security benefits are available only to applicants who are completely disabled and whose disability is considered likely to last at least a year. (Note that as long as your highest possible income is below an SSA determined level, you may work while collecting disability benefits. ) I am able to work, but not at the level I used to, nor can I earn the same money I used to. Can I still file for social security benefits? Yes, if your income is lower than a certain SSA determined level, you are eligible to file for disability benefits. The amount changes annually, so check the official Social Security web site or booklets to find out what the current limit is.