Proving Your Disability

How Does the SSA Define Disability?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict definition of disability. To meet the requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must prove that you have a disability according to the SSA’s definition. Partial or temporary disabilities do not qualify for Social Security benefits.

The SSA defines disability as the following:

• You are not earning at “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) levels. SGA for non-blind individuals is an income of $1,470 per month as of 2023.
• You have a severe impairment. Severity is defined as being unable to perform work-related activities. It also means that your disability is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
• You can’t do the type of work you did before your disability.
• You can’t do any other type of work activities because of your impairment.
• Your condition is so disabling you are eligible for automatic approval. These conditions include asthma, heart disease, arthritis, and more. Conditions eligible for automatic approval are listed in the SSA’s Blue Book.

Applying for Social Security benefits can be complicated, especially if you have been denied already. If you need assistance with your benefits application, our law firm can help you. Contact us today by calling 480-999-4740.

How Do You Gather Your Medical History?

Many SSA disability claims are denied due to a lack of medical evidence. The Disability Determination Services (DDS) uses medical evidence to decide upon claims at the first and second levels of the application process. This state agency, funded by the federal government, will deny your claim if they do not feel you have provided sufficient medical evidence.

Fortunately, you can continue to develop medical evidence if you appeal your denial. The decision-makers who review your claim will want to see evidence of your disability starting back to when your disability first became evident. Finding your disability onset date can be difficult and may require assistance from our legal team.

If the SSA cannot determine whether to accept or reject your application, they may send you for a consultative examination. This exam is done by an independent medical expert or your own doctor. A report will be written and filed with the SSA as medical evidence.

Can a Doctor Help You Prove Your Disability?

Your doctor and healthcare providers are invaluable sources of information and evidence regarding disability benefits. Your doctor can assess your physical and mental condition and submit a written statement about how your disability impacts your daily life.

Medical specialists are also an option, especially for rare disabilities. However, it is important to note that the SSA only gives some medical professionals credibility. If a medical specialist only examines you once, it is unlikely that the SSA will use their report in your medical history. The SSA is also unlikely to accept medical evidence from a naturopathic doctor over a conventional doctor.

Always follow your doctor’s medical instructions, including attending counseling sessions and taking all medications. Talk to your doctor about your diagnosis and symptoms, and don’t assume your doctor will support your claim. If you need assistance when talking to your doctor or healthcare team, contact our law office today.

What Non-Medical Evidence Can be Used?

You can submit detailed reports of your daily activities and your energy levels. Keep a journal of how your impairment affects your daily tasks. Note your ability to sit, stand, carry objects, and walk throughout the day.

You can also ask coworkers and supervisors for statements about how your disability has impacted your work. Friends and family members can submit letters to the SSA about your condition and how they have noticed that it affects your life. Observations like these can bolster your claim to the SSA.

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

The SSA denies thousands of disability benefits applications every year. Proving that you have a disability according to the SSA’s definition is the first step toward getting your application accepted. Our team will help you compile evidence to confirm your claim using your medical history, doctor’s reports, and other non-medical evidence.

Our attorneys at Roeschke Law are confident we can assist you. Contact us today by calling 480-999-4740.