SSA 5-Step Evaluation [INFOGRAPHIC]
Our goal at DSS is to make the disability benefits claim process easier on you. Many times people are unsure if they qualify or if they should submit a claim. Check out our easy to read SSA 5-Step Evaluation infographic below to help you learn more about the evaluation process.
Download the Infographic (PDF) here.
5-Step Evaluation Questions
Step 1: Are you working and making too much money?
If you are unsure, check out our blog about income limits. If you know for a fact you do make too much, then the SSA will find you are not disabled. You may be eligible if you do no work or you don’t have enough income.
Step 2: Do you have a severe impairment?
If you don’t have a disability, then you cannot be eligible for disability benefits. However, even if you do have an impairment, it might not qualify. Which leads us to the next step.
Step 3: Does your impairment meet or equal a listing?
Go to the Social Security website for a list of impairments. Part A is dedicated to adult disability assessments. If your impairment is listed, then you need to make sure it meets specific criteria for that condition. Contact us today if you feel this is the case and need help filing your claim.
If it isn’t listed, don’t despair. There are still steps you can take to find out if you are still eligible.
Step 4: Can you still do your past relevant work?
Is your job physically demanding? Can you still do your day-to-day tasks to complete your job? If yes, you don’t qualify for disability benefits. If no, then you need to ask yourself one more question.
Step 5: Can you make an adjustment to do other work?
Maybe you can do more administrative or desk work or move to a less physically demanding job. If that is the case, then you are still able to work. If you cannot, then you are eligible. Consider applying for disability benefits today. DSS can help!
