Social Security Disability benefits provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify, the disability must be expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
In addition, the applicant must have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes through their employment and must have worked for a sufficient amount of time.
Qualifying disabilities
Social Security defines disability as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a physical impairment. The impairment must be medically determinable, and it must be severe enough to prevent the claimant from working in any substantial capacity.
There are several disabilities that may qualify. These conditions include musculoskeletal disorders like back injuries and joint disorders, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, mental conditions like depression and anxiety, as well as neurological conditions.
In addition, immune system problems and cancer may also fall under the definition of a disability. These are only some examples that may qualify.
Medical evidence
When a claimant submits an application for benefits, they are required to provide medical evidence to support the claim.
They should submit medical records that are relevant to the claim and include information such as the claimant’s diagnosis, treatment history and how the condition has progressed. If the applicant has test results, images, lab reports, or surgical notes those also may be helpful to include.
The applicant’s healthcare providers can also submit written statements that describe their limitations and how the disability affects their ability to work.
