How the Social Security Administration Determines If You Are Disabled

When you are not able to work because of a disability, it can be overwhelming. You may be concerned about how you are going to pay the bills and take care of your family. Social Security provides disability payments for people who qualify. If you have been disabled and are unsure if your disability makes you eligible for Social Security benefits, you should keep reading, but you should also contact a Daytona Beach Social Security attorney who can provide you with additional information.

The Social Security Administration uses a specific process when it comes to determining whether or not you are disabled. According to the agency’s website, there are five basic questions that are asked to decide if you are eligible for disability payments.

The first question you will be asked is if you are working. If you are currently working and earning more than $980 a month, you probably will not be able to receive benefits. The next thing you will be asked is if your condition is severe, meaning it interferes with your ability to work.

The Social Security Administration has created a list of disabling conditions. You may be asked if your condition is listed. When your condition is on the list, it generally means that you qualify, but if it is not, Social Security will review the severity of your disability as compared to those listed.

The last two questions asked have to do with your ability to perform work you did in the past and whether you are able to do another type of work. When your answer is “no” to these questions, you may be considered disabled and eligible for benefits.

Disability benefits typically begin during your sixth month of disability. It is not uncommon to be denied benefits, even if you are disabled. In that circumstance, you should contact a Daytona Beach Social Security lawyer who can help you navigate the confusing Social Security disability system. Contact the Law Firm of Johnson & Gilbert at (386) 673-4412 or (800) 556-8890 for more information.

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