❗ Hidden trap: work during a disability pension

Many people ask me: “Can I work while on disability pension?”
The answer is yes – but with major reservations.

In short:

• You can work while receiving a disability pension. But it must be a job that doesn’t contradict your health condition.

• Social security will assess whether the scope and type of your job align with your recognized disability.

• If they determine that your work proves a higher level of capability than expected, they may initiate a medical reassessment.

• If the reassessment finds your condition has improved, you may lose the pension entirely.

This applies especially if you:

• Are working full time

• Are performing physically demanding work despite orthopedic or neurological disabilities

• Or are managing a business or team, despite cognitive or psychological limitations

Even if your earnings are small, the type of work matters more than the income.

⚖️ Expert explanation: work and disability

Let’s clarify the difference between disability grades and related limits.

• 1st-degree disability pension: partial ability to work is expected. Most types of employment are allowed if they respect your health limitations.

• 2nd-degree: reduced ability to work significantly. You can still have a part-time job or run a small business with limited demands.

• 3rd-degree: severely limited ability to work. Working full time or in a demanding job may be risky.

In each case, the pension is paid regardless of your income level. Unlike some other benefits (e.g., unemployment), the disability pension is not means-tested.

BUT: your activity may prompt a review. If they decide you’re too “capable,” you may lose your pension.

📌 Real case: unexpected cancellation of pension

One client was receiving a 2nd-degree pension due to spine issues. She took a part-time job cleaning a school, thinking it was safe.
The school confirmed her work involved lifting buckets and carrying supplies.
The review concluded she was not as limited as the medical report claimed. Her pension was terminated.

We filed an appeal and submitted a medical statement confirming her limitations. After several months of stress and paperwork, the pension was reinstated.

Lesson learned: don’t rely on assumptions. When in doubt, consult a lawyer or doctor before taking a job.

✅ Lawyer’s advice

I recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to your doctor before taking a job – ask if it’s suitable given your diagnosis.

2. Keep documentation about your condition and job duties.

3. If you’re invited for a reassessment, prepare carefully and bring a detailed report from your specialist.

4. Don’t panic if your pension is cancelled – in many cases, it can be reversed via appeal or court.

If you’re unsure what’s allowed or if you’re facing a review, feel free to get in touch.