If you’re applying for long-term disability (LTD) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you know that working can put your claim at risk. But what about hobbies? Activities like painting, photography, gardening, woodworking, or volunteering may seem harmless—but depending on how they’re perceived, your insurer or the Social Security Administration (SSA) might see them as evidence that you’re capable of working.
The line between a personal hobby and work-like activity can be thin. Understanding where that line is and how to avoid crossing it can help you protect your claim.
The Problem Isn’t the Hobby—It’s How It Looks
Hobbies aren’t inherently a problem. In fact, enjoyable, low-effort activities can help people cope with pain, manage depression, or retain a sense of purpose while dealing with disabling conditions. But insurance companies and SSA decision-makers don’t just care what you’re doing—they care how often, how structured, and how functional those activities are.
Here are some factors they consider:
- Is the activity physically or mentally demanding?
- Does it require concentration, coordination, or extended effort?
- Is there money involved—directly or indirectly?
- Are you participating on a schedule or taking orders?
- Could this be interpreted as self-employment or preparation for work?
Even if you think you’re just “doing something to stay busy,” your actions could be seen as inconsistent with your claimed limitations.
When a Hobby Starts to Look Like a Job
Let’s say you enjoy making jewelry at home. On the surface, that sounds like a harmless creative outlet. But what if:
- You’ve set up a website or Etsy store
- You’re fulfilling orders for friends
- You’ve applied for a business license
- You post photos of your work on social media with pricing
- You accept payment through PayPal or Venmo
Suddenly, what started as a hobby now looks like self-employment. From the perspective of your insurer or the SSA, you’re engaged in productive, goal-directed activity with the potential for income. That can be enough to cast doubt on whether you’re disabled.
Other examples that raise red flags include:
- A photography hobby that turns into weekend portrait sessions
- Volunteering at a nonprofit in an administrative role
- Blogging about your former profession, especially with affiliate links or ads
- Fixing neighbors’ computers or cars “to help out”
Even if you’re not getting paid—or barely earning anything—the type of activity matters just as much as the income.
SSA and LTD Insurers Look at Function, Not Just Money
For LTD claims, the insurance company will compare your hobby to the demands of your prior job—or any occupation—based on the current definition of disability in your policy. They may argue that:
- You’re demonstrating transferable work skills
- You have the stamina, coordination, or cognitive function to return to work
- You’re performing tasks that conflict with your medical restrictions
For SSDI, SSA focuses on whether you’re engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Even unpaid or low-paying activities can be considered “gainful” if they suggest you could earn income in a competitive labor market.
In both cases, the argument is the same: If you can do this, why can’t you work?
You Can’t “Hide” a Hobby
Many claimants assume that if they don’t advertise what they’re doing, it won’t come up. But insurance companies and SSA may:
- Search social media, eBay, Etsy, or YouTube for your name or content
- Monitor public records or business filings
- Conduct surveillance or online research
- Interview neighbors or people in your community
Even something as simple as a public post about your latest project could trigger a deeper investigation.
What to Do Before Starting or Continuing a Hobby
If you’re engaged in—or thinking about starting—a hobby that involves time, structure, or potential income, take the following steps to protect your claim:
- Talk to Your Doctor: Your physician should know what you’re doing and whether it aligns with your documented limitations. Only your doctor can determine whether the activity is medically appropriate.
- Talk to Your Attorney: Your attorney can help you understand how the activity may be perceived by insurers or SSA. While your attorney can’t tell you how much you’re physically able to do, they can guide you on legal risk and documentation.
- Avoid Monetizing the Activity: Selling items, accepting donations, or promoting your work online increases the likelihood your hobby will be seen as work.
- Limit the Structure: Avoid routines, deadlines, and task lists that mimic a job. If it looks like work, it may be treated as work.
- Document your Limitations: Make sure your medical records reflect your functional restrictions clearly.
When Leisure Becomes Liability
We’re not saying you can’t have a life while on disability. But your activities must match your reported limitations. If your hobby sends a different message, especially to someone reviewing your claim, it could jeopardize your benefits.
