What Does It Mean to Qualify for Social Security Disability?
In the United States, those who are unable to work due to physical or mental disabilities can receive disability benefits from the SSA (Social Security Administration). In order to qualify for these benefits, a claimant must prove they are unable to take part in SGA (Substantial Gainful Activities) due to their condition. This means that their disability must impede their ability to earn the necessary income to support themselves.
There are a number of steps that go into applying for disability benefits. Proving an applicant is entitled to SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) often involves compiling medical records, work history (if applicable), undergoing physical exams, etc.
Knowing what documentation to provide the SSA is half the battle of filing a disability claim. Unfortunately, gathering the proper documentation and information can be hard. Initial applications for social security disability are often denied because claimants don’t know exactly what to provide the SSA.
It is also important to know how the SSA will reference the Blue Book before filing a claim. This, along with several other reasons, is why a claimant should seek legal counsel from a SSD attorney in Oakland, or other nearby areas, when applying for social security disability in California.
What Is The Blue Book?
The Blue Book is the baseline for determining precisely what kinds of disabilities and conditions qualify a claimant for social security disability benefits. Detailed descriptions are divided into two sections, one for adult disabilities and impairments, and another for childhood disabilities and impairments.
The Blue Book consists of general information, requirements, and impairment overviews. For physical impairments, disabling conditions fall into certain categories. These include the following:
- Musculoskeletal
- Special Senses and Speech
- Respiratory
- Cardiovascular
- Digestive
- Genitourinary
- Hematological
- Skin Disorders
- Endocrine Disorders
- Disorders Affecting Multiple Body Systems
- Neurological
- Cancer
- Immune System
The blue book also recognizes mental impairments and disorders which may qualify someone for social security disability benefits. Some of these include the following:
- Paranoid Schizophrenia (and other Psychotic Disorders)
- Affective Disorders
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Autistic Disorders
- Anxiety Disorders
It should also be noted that not all qualifying disabilities are listed in the Blue Book. Just because your condition is not listed does not mean your claim will be denied.
Filing A Claim
Filing SSI or SSDI claims involves proving to the Social Security Administration that your medical condition prevents you from being able to work and financially provide for yourself. The SSA will work to understand and determine the severity of your condition when they assess your claim.
Hiring a social security disability attorney will better the chances of your claim being approved. This is because an experienced disability lawyer will fully understand the Blue Book, what to expect from the SSA, what documentation to provide, etc.
SSD Attorney in Oakland, CA
If you are struggling to find an experienced attorney who can walk you through the process of filing a disability claim, look no further than Ortega Disability Group. We are a law firm with a team of experienced Oakland SSD lawyers who know precisely how to get disability claims approved.
Contact us today if you are looking for social security disability lawyers you can rely on in Oakland, Alameda, or Orange, California. We will get you the benefits you deserve.
