Understanding Social Security’s Definition of Disability- Key Criteria and Considerations
What does Social Security consider a disability?
When applying for Social Security disability benefits, it is crucial to understand what the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines as a disability. The SSA has specific criteria that applicants must meet to qualify for these benefits. This article will delve into what the SSA considers a disability and the process of applying for these benefits.
The SSA defines a disability as a condition that prevents an individual from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for a period of at least 12 months, or that is expected to result in death. To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
1. Medical Condition: The applicant must have a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. This condition can be physical or mental.
2. Unable to Work: The applicant must be unable to perform any substantial gainful activity due to their medical condition. SGA is defined as earning more than a certain amount per month, which varies depending on the year and the type of work.
3. Medical Evidence: The applicant must provide medical evidence to support their claim. This evidence can include doctor’s reports, test results, and other medical records.
4. Age and Work History: The applicant must have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes for a certain number of years, depending on their age and work history.
The SSA uses a five-step process to determine if an applicant is eligible for disability benefits:
1. Work Activity: The SSA will evaluate the applicant’s work activity over the past 15 years. If the applicant is working and earning more than the SGA limit, they will not be eligible for benefits.
2. Medical Condition: The SSA will determine if the applicant’s medical condition is severe enough to interfere with basic work-related activities.
3. Medical Causation: The SSA will assess whether the medical condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
4. Medical Listings: The SSA will check if the applicant’s medical condition meets or equals a listing in the SSA’s medical listings manual. These listings detail specific conditions and the severity required to qualify for benefits.
5. Residual Functional Capacity: If the applicant’s condition does not meet or equal a listing, the SSA will evaluate their residual functional capacity (RFC), which is the individual’s ability to perform work-related activities despite their medical condition.
Understanding what the SSA considers a disability is essential for anyone applying for Social Security disability benefits. By meeting the criteria and providing the necessary medical evidence, applicants can increase their chances of being approved for these vital benefits.
