A five-step evaluation process is used to determine whether or not you are considered disabled. The Social Security Administration defines disability as a medical condition that prevents you from working, and will likely last for more than twelve months or lead to your death. If you believe this describes your current situation, filing for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration is a very good idea.
What information will you need to submit when filing a disability claim? The list includes:
- Medical information, such as the names of any physicians, clinics and hospitals that have treated you, as well as their addresses, phone numbers and dates of treatment
- Your work history
- Your proof of United States Citizenship
- Personal information, like the date of your birth and any marriages
The Five-Step Process
If your situation meets the following criteria, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits.
- You are not working or you earn less than $940 per month
- Your medical condition is severe enough to prevent you from doing basic work-related tasks
- Your medical condition, or conditions, meet the regulations outlined in the Social Security Administration’s “Bluebook” of qualifying medical conditions
- You cannot do the work you did in the past
- Based upon your age, education, skills, and work history, the Social Security Administration determines you cannot do any other type of gainful work
This five-step process is highly subjective. Many cases are lost because information about a claimant’s ability to work is not provided in the appropriate manner to the Social Security Administration. It is important that you consult with an attorney experienced in this area of the law who can use every available tool to prove to the Social Security Administration that your condition affects your ability to work. Contact Fort Lauderdale disability attorney and lawyer David M. Benenfeld today.
