Have you ever wondered how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines the term “disabled”? It’s not as straightforward as you might think! The SSA’s definition of “disability” is unique and differs significantly from other government agencies and common everyday usage.
So, What Does “Disability” Mean to the SSA?
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, proving your disability isn’t about telling your story alone. You need to back it up with solid, objective evidence that meets the SSA’s criteria and with the help of the Social Security attorney like the ones at Seguro Social Por Incapacidad, who can both speak English and spanish. Specifically, you need to demonstrate that you have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or a combination of both) that’s severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months.
But it’s not just about the inability to work. The SSA takes a comprehensive look at your situation, your medical conditions, considering your age, education, and previous work experience. They use a detailed five-step process to decide if you’re “disabled” by their standards.
Here’s the key: The SSA isn’t interested in whether you can return to your old job or if you can find new work right now. Instead, and based on the feedback from our Disability Lawyers, they evaluate whether, given your age, education, and past work experience, there are a significant number of jobs out there that you could still perform despite your impairments. If the SSA believes you can do other work – even if it’s work you’ve never done before or don’t know about – then, unfortunately, you won’t qualify as “disabled.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits
- If I’m Considered Disabled by Workers’ Compensation or VA, Am I Automatically Eligible for Social Security Disability?
This is a common question with a surprising answer: Not necessarily! Different agencies, like the Veterans Administration and state workers’ compensation programs, have their own ways of defining disability. The SSA makes its own independent determination using its specific rules and regulations. So, even if you’re considered disabled by another agency, you still have to meet the SSA’s definition to qualify for disability benefits.
