The basics of the SSDI claims evaluation process

When it comes to the SSDI claims evaluation process, it is important to have a clear understanding of what the Social Security Administration takes into consideration. SSDI claimants all have to go through the same evaluation process, and having a firm grasp on what the agency is looking for can help one to develop the best possible claim.

What exactly is considered in the SSDI evaluation process? First of all, the agency will look at the claimant’s current income level. If it is too high, the claim is rejected. Next, the agency will look at the severity of the condition, and whether it meets the qualifications of an entry in the agency’s official listing of impairments.  

To be considered severe, a disabling condition must prevent or interfere with the applicant’s ability to engage in fundamental wok duties. The claimant must also present sufficient evidence to show that his or her condition meets specific requirements for that particular condition. Disabling conditions which don’t match an entry may still be deemed disabilities, but they must at least match an official entry in the agency’s listing of impairments.

If these conditions are met, the next consideration is whether the claimant is able to engage in work he or she previously performed. Various factors go into this consideration. If it is determined that the claimant is not able to do so, the next question is whether he or she is able to perform any other type of work. On its website, the agency details the various factors that are weighed in making this determination.

The SSDI evaluation process is no walk in the park, and claimants need to make sure they put together the best possible claim. Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure claimants put forward the strongest case possible.