How Does the SSA Define a Disability?
Knowing how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability is important when you are thinking about applying for disability benefits. When your medical condition does not meet the definition of a disability, do not panic. There are additional steps in the disability benefits application process that could still qualify you for benefits. If you have questions, ask a Wilmington disability lawyer for help.
SSA DEFINITION OF A DISABILITY
The SSA definition of a disability is a physical or mental condition that significantly impairs work performance. Three criteria must be met for the SSA to consider your 
condition a long-term disability. Short-term and partial disabilities are usually not covered by disability benefits.
These three criteria include not being able to perform a substantial gainful activity, not being able to do past or future work, and severe disability. A disability is deemed severe when it is expected to lead to early death or last at least one year. Types of disabilities covered by disability benefits are listed in the online SSA Blue Book.
You can look for your disability or medical condition in the Blue Book. Each disability listing comes with different criteria for eligibility. Some criteria require substantial medical evidence, while others require certain symptoms. Certain medical conditions may qualify you for a faster disability benefits application process.
Do not panic if you cannot find your disability listed in the Blue Book. This may not always mean you cannot qualify for disability benefits. If your disability meets other eligibility criteria, then you might still have access to disability benefits. Consider contacting a Wilmington disability lawyer to find out more about how this process works.
WHAT IF MY DISABILITY IS NOT LISTED?
If your disability is not listed in the Blue Book or does not meet the full legal definition of a disability, then a different evaluation might be needed. A residual functional capacity assessment is often used in situations like this. The goal of a residual functional capacity evaluation is to determine:
- Whether you can do past work
- Whether you can do other types of jobs
If the residual functional capacity assessment reveals you cannot do past or future work, then you could be eligible for disability benefits. As long as your disability prevents you from earning a basic income, you may remain eligible for disability benefits. However, if your condition improves, the SSA may order another evaluation and remove benefits when work performance is no longer affected.
Increase your chances of qualifying for disability benefits by submitting as much evidence as possible. This includes medical and non-medical evidence. Consider contacting a Wilmington disability lawyer for additional guidance when submitting your disability benefits application.
CALL EDELSTEIN MARTIN & NELSON TODAY
Applying for disability benefits is not always straightforward. Try talking with a Delaware disability attorney about your options if your disability benefits were denied. You can contact Edelstein Martin & Nelson today at (302) 504-4815 for a free consultation about your disability claim. Our legal team might be able to help you increase your chances of receiving disability benefits. We are located in Wilmington, DE.
