How to Qualify for Disability in Bakersfield

We can all agree that Social Security disability benefits are valuable to those who are in need. Even so, navigating the rules and regulations, paperwork and expectations can be daunting at best. Worse yet, if you have taken the time to apply and were ultimately denied, it can be quite a disheartening experience.

But did you know that there are certain procedures you can follow that will better guarantee a positive outcome? Continue reading to learn about 5 simple indicators when it comes to how to qualify disability benefits. In the end, this information should help you as you begin your campaign to secure the benefits you have earned. To learn more, contact Oren & Oren today.

1. Are You Currently Working?

Many Americans mistakenly believe they can continue to work while also collecting SSD. Wrong. SSD is designed specifically to provide financial support to people who are unable to work because of the disability they claim.

You can’t have it both ways. You can’t say you are unable to work and need SSD while being an active member of the workforce. It is worth noting the SSA sets income thresholds regularly. That is the amount of income you must fall below to qualify for benefits. So, begin by identifying this important information prior to making an application. Know that if you are working or if your income is above the amount set by SSA then you will most likely be denied benefits.

2. How Severe Is Your Impairment?

Now, no one is accusing you of being dishonest about your injury. However, it is important to note there are firm restrictions to being awarded SSD benefits. The first of these being that the disability be serious enough to prevent the recipient from engaging in gainful employment.

One way to determine this is to consider whether you can complete tasks that were a part of your routine prior to experiencing the disabling event. This is a factor the SSA considers when reviewing your application.

In other words, the condition must be severe enough in nature that you can no longer complete common tasks associated with the job you held. Take a hard look at it yourself before sending off the application to SSA. Pretend you are an SSA administrator upon whose desk your application has landed. What would you say if you read it? Taking the time to implement this recommendation can save you a lot of trouble later on.

3. Does Your Condition Meet the Listing of Impairments?

The SSA has an extensive and detailed list of medical conditions that fall under the heading of “disabling” and that are eligible for remuneration. There are many illnesses that will automatically qualify you. If your benefits are initially denied, however, do not give up. There are further steps you can take to attempt to obtain financial support.

There is a descriptor titled “compassionate allowance”. You may reapply with a request for consideration under this condition and with more detailed information about your specific disability. Computers are used to screen initial applications and a second review of your case may reveal that you indeed are eligible for SSD.

4. Can You Perform Your Prior Job Duties?

You should be prepared to demonstrate that your condition prevents you from performing the job duties you have carried out in the past. If you can establish your case to the satisfaction of the SSA then you will be labeled “disabled”. There are a variety of forms of documentation that will better ensure your eligibility. Take the time to research this thoroughly prior to submitting your initial application.

5. Can You Perform Any Other Job?

Maybe you are unable to complete the work you’ve done in the past. But can you perform work at a different job? Everything should be considered including education, age, medical condition, work history, and transferable skill sets.