Whether Social Security considers you “disabled” is determined by your inability to work. The agency considers you disabled under its rules if:
- You cannot do the work you did before;
- They decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
- Your disability has lasted or is likely to last for at least one year or to result in death.
Social Security pays only for total disability, not a partial disability.
Many people believe that if they simply explain their situation to Social Security, someone will understand and award them disability benefits. Unfortunately, that’s not the way Social Security works.
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits is a complicated legal process. You must prove you are “disabled” according to the Social Security Disability Program (SSDP) legal definition.
The Social Security Disability system involves thousands of rules, regulations, and procedures. You can be denied benefits if your doctor doesn’t know the legal definition of disability, or if a Social Security employee fails to obtain medical evidence on your behalf. You can also lose your case if an appeal is handled improperly.
At George & George, we offer a free evaluation of your disability case. Contact us today to learn more.