6 Signs That You Will Be Approved for Disability

Navigating the disability approval process with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can often seem overwhelming, especially given that only 35% of initial claims are approved. However, if you continue with the appeals process, your chances of approval rise significantly, often exceeding 50%. 

It’s important to note that the SSA deems an individual as disabled only if injuries, illnesses, or conditions make it impossible for them to work sufficiently. This includes performing prior job duties or taking up a new position. To determine eligibility, the SSA considers several areas including your past work, education, training, and age, following a detailed evaluation process.

Whether you are taking this journey on your own or with legal assistance, the following key indicators might hint at your chances for approval.

1. You have limited earnings

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is a term used by the SSA to define a level of income that covers normal living expenses. Current thresholds are set at $1,260 a month for non-blind individuals and $2,110 for blind individuals. These amounts are one of the major factors the SSA uses to determine disability approval.

However, other factors, such as your work environment and the unique circumstances surrounding your employment, may also be considered, so don’t be discouraged if your income doesn’t meet these exact thresholds.

2. You’re unable to continue working previous jobs

Your application needs to establish that you can no longer work in your previous roles. By providing information on your past employment, including job descriptions, work demands, and how your condition has affected your performance, you offer vital evidence for your claim.

3. Your recent employment and tax contributions

A significant requirement for disability approval is having paid sufficient taxes to the Social Security Administration. When applying for disability, the SSA checks whether you have accumulated 40 tax credits, with at least 20 of them earned in the ten years leading up to your application.

4. You have daily limitations and have medical evidence  

The SSA makes its decision heavily based on your medical documentation. As a guiding principle, the SSA stipulates that your condition must significantly restrict your ability to perform basic tasks for a minimum of 12 months. Therefore, comprehensive medical evidence that clearly outlines your day-to-day limitations will boost your application. It may be beneficial to discuss this in detail with your doctor before applying, ensuring relevant and sufficient documentation of your condition.

5. You have legal U.S. residency

As a rule, Social Security benefits are available only to U.S. citizens and legal residents who have paid Social Security taxes.

6. You’re of advanced age

Applicants over 50 are considered by the SSA to be of ‘advanced age,’ which can positively impact your chances of approval. Older applicants often have different and sometimes more lenient work requirements when applying for disability benefits.

Conclusion

While no one can guarantee a positive outcome, understanding these six key factors can certainly help guide your application process. This, in turn, enhances your chances of approval. Engaging a disability attorney might be beneficial. These professionals can help organize your paperwork, guide you through the process, and assist you during any necessary appeals process.

In any case, ensure that you are equipped with the right information. Always double-check facts and stay current with the SSA’s requirements. The process can be challenging, but thorough research and diligent preparation can significantly improve your prospects.

Sources:

1. Disability Benefits – How You Qualify, Social Security Administration, www.ssa.gov

2. 5 Best Ways to Know if You’ll Qualify for Disability, Disability Benefits Help, www.disability-benefits-help.org