What Is Considered Being “Disabled”?

Unfortunately, this is a very simple question without a simple answer. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a long list of considerations to determine what constitutes being “disabled” for the purposes of granting someone Social Security or SSI benefits. To be considered disabled, individuals must be impaired, either medically, psychologically or psychiatrically in such a way that the impairment prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activities. There is also a durational requirement in that the individual’s specific impairment must have prevented them from engaging in a substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months, or be expected to prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity. “Substantial gainful activity” generally means employment at a threshold of at least $1,070.00 per month.

Help From A Plano Social Security Disability Lawyer

An individual’s medical records are considered when determining disability and must contain evidence of the mental or physical impairment and exactly how it prevents an individual from working. The medical records evidence must be current and relevant information. There is the possibility that if you are so severely injured or impaired, Social Security can tell just by looking at an impairment listing chart and automatically approve benefits. For physical impairment applicants, the Social Security Administration will determine whether or not the applicant can perform medium, light, or sedentary work by doing a residual functional capacity assessment. Factors such as an applicant’s age, education, and past work history are considered in determining residual functional capacity.

If you or a loved one is involved in a Social Security benefits dispute, or if you or a loved one require assistance in filing an initial application for benefits, please contact the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, today and schedule a consultation with an experienced, well-qualified Plano Social Security disability attorney.