Determining Disability

Determining if you're disabled doesn't seem like too challenging of a task

. In fact, for most people it's probably relatively simple. However, what you may deem as disabled doesn't always matter. At least not in the eyes of Social Security benefits, which, let's face it, is important. So, how does one determine if they're disabled for SSDI or SSI? This raises some social security questions. Now the task seems a bit more challenging than as to whether or not you can work. But, to help you out, here are the 5 steps that Social Security will use to determine if you're disabled for SSDI or SSI.

Step One: Are you working?

Before anything else, Social Security wants to know if you're working at Substantial Gain Activity (SGA) level. If you are, Social Security will usually find you to not be disabled. Currently, the line is drawn at $980. Of course, if you are self-employed, things can get a little more complicated.

Step Two: Is your condition "severe"?

Basically, Social Security is going to determine if your condition interferes with basic work related activity. If Social Security doesn't find your condition severe, you won't be deemed disabled.

Step Three: Is your impairment "listed"?

Social Security has a list of severe impairments, and if your impairment is on them, you'll be deemed disabled. This helps Social Security in the sense that they don't have to investigate every case. If you meet or equal impairment on the list, they'll find you disabled. Social Security has a basic Medical Listing as well as a Child Listing.

Step Four: Can you do previous work?

Social Security will look at your previous job. Basically, if you can perform your past work, they won't find you disabled. The reason behind this is because different jobs require different types of skills. Naturally, a certain disability will affect a construction worker differently than a writer.

Step Five: Can you do other work?

If Social Security finds there are a fair amount of other jobs you're qualified to do, they won't deem you disabled. Of course, "qualified" is key. Certainly, a roofer with a bad back might physically be able to manage a hedge fund, but they probably aren't qualified. If Social Security feels you can't adjust to other work, they will find you disabled.

Determining Disability

By: Dan Heinkel

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