Disability

What is a Disability according to Social Security?

The dictionary defines disability as "a physical or mental handicap, especially one that prevents a person from living a full, normal life or from holding a gainful job." The Social Security Administration however, uses a more complex method to define disability. To determine if you are disabled, the SSA uses the following five step process:

1. Are you currently working? -- If you are able to work and you earn more than $1000 per month, you may not be eligible for disability benefits.


2. Is your condition "severe"? -- If your condition does not interfere with basic work activities then you may not be considered disabled.


3. Is your condition found in the list of disabling conditions? -- If your condition is not on the list, SSA will decide if the condition is equal in severity to a listed condition. For a list of conditions, please see our Common Disabilities page.


4. Can you do the work you did previously? -- If you are able to do the work you previously did in spite of your condition, you may not qualify for disability benefits.


5. Can you do any other type of work? -- If you are able to adjust to another job you may not be considered disabled.

As you can see, the five step test used by the Social Security has many grey areas. Whether or not the SSA considers you disabled can sometimes be affected by how well you present your case. Therefore, many disabled individuals find that it's helpful to have a Social Security Disability advocate help them with their case. To find a disability advocate who can help you, please complete the Free Disability Case Review form below.