This is a question I receive often. There really is no one-size-fits-all answer. Social Security has different standards based on a person’s age, education and the types of work the individual performed in the past. Although it is true that for individuals under 50 years of age, you essentially must prove there are no jobs you would be capable of performing on a full-time, sustained basis, the standard is usually not as high for people over 50.
Regardless of your age, applying for Social Security Disability can be a frustrating and confusing process. You should strongly consider hiring an attorney experienced in this field who understands the rules and regulations. The attorney can guide you when filling out questionnaires at the initial and reconsideration levels, or can prepare you before you are called to testify on your own behalf at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, if that becomes necessary.
In addition, experienced Social Security Disability attorneys understand the importance of having supportive medical evidence and medical opinions and can guide you in that respect. Often, Social Security Disability claims are denied because a person’s medical records do not accurately reflect the severity of the underlying medical conditions or because the work-related limitations caused by the medical diagnoses are not clear.
If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits, contact me today for a free consultation.
