3 WAYS TO BE APPROVED FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

Under Social Security rules and regulations there are basically 3 ways to be approved for disability benefits:

1.  Prove that you meet a Listing.  Listings are published lists of medical impairments and extensive symptoms which are documented by acceptable medical evidence.  Claimants of any age could meet a Listing.

2.  Meet or equal a grid rule, also called a medical-vocational rule.  It is possible to meet a grid rule only if

•        You are age 50 or older and
•        You have one or more exertional impairments in:
• Sitting
• Standing
• Walking
• Lifting
• Carrying
• Pushing, or
• Pulling

3.  The third way you can get disability benefits is by proving that you are not able to

• Perform any of your past relevant work, which is any job your have done in the past 15 years, nor

• Perform any other work which exists in substantial numbers in the United States.

Social Security decision makers will take a step-by-step approach to analyze which of the above methods allows for an award of benefits.  If neither of the 3 methods allows for an award, your claim will be denied.

I want to add that many claims are denied which should have been paid.  There is an appeal system in place to catch those errors and fix them.  This requires a hearing before an administrative law judge.  If your claim is denied, you must file a written appeal and ask for a hearing within 60 days.  While it will probably take about 18 to 24 months to get before a judge, you only have 60 days to request a hearing.
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Charles W. Forsythe
The Forsythe Firm
7027 Old Madison Pike  - Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
"Across From Bridge Street"

PHONE (256) 799-0297

EMAIL US:    forsythefirm@gmail.com

SOCIAL SECURITY JUSTICE WEBSITE