Who qualifies for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration
The first question that most of our Tennessee and Virginia Social Security disability clients have is whether they will qualify for disability benefits.
Sometimes we can predict the outcome, but many times it is hard to know and we simply need to start the Social Security application process. However, we can explain the Social Security claim process to you and give you the definition that the Social Security Administration uses to evaluate whether you are disabled.
The definition of “disability” under the Social Security disability program
For purposes of Social Security disability benefits, the determination of whether or not you are disabled is based on your ability to work.
The Social Security Administration says that it considers you disabled if all three of the following requirements are met:
- You cannot do work that you did before you became disabled.
- You cannot adjust to other work because of your disability.
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
What does the Social Security Administration mean by “other work”?
One of the requirements for qualifying for Social Security disability benefits is that your medical condition renders you unable to adjust to “other work.”
This can be a difficult requirement to satisfy because the Social Security Administration rules define “other work” very broadly. For purposes of qualifying for Social Security disability benefits, “other work” does not mean work that you have done before, or work that you want to do, or even work that is available where you live.
Instead, the Social Security Administration requirement is that your disability prevents you from doing “any other kind of substantial gainful work which exists in the national economy.”
Since there is some sort of job, somewhere, for almost everyone, proving that you are unable to adjust to “other work” can be a difficult hurdle to overcome in your quest for Social Security disability benefits.
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A Virginia disability lawyer can help with your Social Security claim
The Social Security Administration has its own definitions and rules, and working with these things can be confusing. Give yourself the best chance at getting a favorable result by getting the help and guidance of an experienced Virginia disability lawyer.
If you are not already represented by a Virginia Social Security disability lawyer, consider asking for our evaluation of your claim. Please provide a brief description of your claim using the form to the right, and we will respond promptly. Or you may contact us at:
Bledsoe Law Office
Virginia Social Security disability attorney
Serving southwestern Virginia and northeastern Tennessee from three offices:
408 Wood Avenue
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
No. 2 Church Street
Jonesville, VA 24263
1619 Highway 11W
Bristol, TN 37620
