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Five-step Process To Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits

Posted on : September 25, 2014Posted By : Russell HillPosted In : SSD

Do you qualify for Social Security disability benefits?

Social Security Disability BenefitsIn order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked in a job or jobs covered by Social Security. You will also need to meet the medical condition requirements defined by Social Security. Once you are approved for benefits, Social Security will pay monthly cash benefits for a year or more, or if you have a medical condition expected to end in death.

Social Security will only pay for total disability. They will not pay benefits if you are partially disabled or will be disabled for a short-term.

Benefits will normally continue until you are able to work again on a regular basis. Social Security also provides “work incentives” that will help provide continued benefits and health care coverage so that you can make the transition back to work.

Social Security Administration Process – 5 Questions

  1. Are you working?
    If you are working, you may not be considered disabled. If you are not working, Social Security Administration will send your application to the Disability Determination Services to make a decision about your medical condition.
  2. Is your condition “severe”?
    In order for your claim to be considered, your condition must keep you from doing basic work-related activities.
  3. Is your condition found in the list of disabling conditions?
    There is two List of Impairments.The first is the Adult Listings (Part A) which contains medical criteria that apply to the evaluation of impairments in adults 18 and over. It also may apply in evaluating impairments in children under age 18. See Adult Listings.
    The second is the Childhood Listings (Part B) which contains medical criteria that apply only to the evaluation of impairments of children under age 18. See Childhood Listings.
  4. Can you do the work you did previously?
    If your condition is severe but not at the same or equal level of severity as a medical condition on the list, then Social Security will determine if it interferes with your ability to do the work you did previously.
  5. Can you do other types of work?
    Social Security will review your situation and determine if you are able to adjust to other work. They will take into consideration your age, education, past work experience and any other transferable skills you may have. If you cannot adjust to other types of work, your claim may be then be approved.

You can help expedite the Social Security benefits process by bringing certain information, medical evidence, and documents with you when you apply. See the information you need to apply here.

The maze of appeals rules, regulations, paperwork, appointments and legal proceedings is stressful and complicated. Additionally, once your appeal is completed, there is no guarantee you will receive your benefits.

Social security disability and appeals attorneysAt Russell & Hill, PLLC, our Social Security disability and appeals attorneys will relieve your stress by handling your case from start to finish and by greatly increasing your chances of receiving benefits payment upon appeal and reconsideration by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

For help with the Social Security Disability, SSI, and appeal process, contact one of our Social Security disability and appeals attorneys at Russell & Hill, PLLC – 425-212-9165 (TOLL FREE).

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