If you are considering applying for disability it is important to understand what Social Security considers to be disabled. Here are several questions to help you decide if your medical condition meets Social Security’s criteria for approval.

Are You Currently Working?

If you are currently working, even part time, and you earn more than $860 per month before taxes, Social Security will not consider you disabled. Social Security calls this amount “Significant Gainful Activity.”

Is Your Disability Severe?

Your medical condition must be expected to last for at least twelve months and prevent you from working. The State will evaluate your disability to decide if you meet this requirement.

Can You Work?

Your medical condition must prevent from doing significant work. If you are unable to do the work you were previously doing for a twelve month period because of your condition Social Security may consider you disabled. If you cannot do the same type of work you were doing previously, is there another job you can do?

Social Security will evaluate your age, condition, education, and job experience to determine if there are any other jobs you would be capable of doing. If Social Security determines you could function in another type of job, you will not be considered disabled. To learn more about disability benefits visit the website “Social Security Laid Bare” using the links below.