One of the most common questions we are asked is, “Do I have to be fully disabled to receive Social Security Disability benefits?” The short answer is no, but you must meet the strict legal definition of disability set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Understanding how Social Security defines disability can make the difference between approval and denial.
What does “fully disabled” mean for Social Security?
The SSA does not use the term “fully disabled.” Rather, it evaluates whether you can perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) or if your medical condition(s) prohibit it.
To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you must:
- Have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment
- That has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months (or result in death)
- And be unable to perform substantial gainful activity
In other words, you do not need to be bedridden or completely helpless.
Can you still do daily activities and qualify?
Yes; however, the real question is not if you can perform basic activities, but rather if you can sustain competitive work activity on a regular and continuing basis at a level that meets the SSA’s earning requirements. Many people who receive disability benefits are still able to drive short distances, prepare simple meals, go grocery shopping, use a smartphone or computer, or perform light household chores.
How does the SSA decide if you’re disabled?
The Social Security Administration follows a five-step evaluation process:
- Are you working above the SGA income limit?
- Is your medical condition severe?
- Does your condition meet or equal a listing in the SSA’s “Blue Book”?
- Can you perform your past relevant work?
- Can you adjust to other work in the national economy?
If the answer to the final question is no, you may qualify for disability benefits — even if you are not “100% disabled.”
Does Social Security offer partial disability benefits?
No. Unlike private disability insurance or workers’ compensation, the SSA does not pay partial disability benefits. You either meet the disability standard or do not. However, meeting the standard does not require total physical or mental incapacity — it requires the inability to sustain competitive employment.
Common conditions that may qualify for disability benefits
The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, otherwise known as the “Blue Book,” that outlines medical criteria to be approved for benefits. Common qualifying conditions include:
- Degenerative disc disease and severe back disorders
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic kidney disease
- Major depressive disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Autoimmune diseases
Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify based on your residual functional capacity (RFC) — meaning what you can still do despite your limitations.
Why are many disability claims denied?
There are several common reasons that initial claims are denied, including:
- Insufficient medical documentation
- Failure to follow prescribed treatment
- Earning above the SGA income limit
- Incomplete paperwork
- Lack of detailed functional limitations
As you can see, there are many moving parts involved when filing for SSD benefits. Increase your odds of being approved by obtaining legal representation. The legal team of Parmele Disability Advocates has over 150 years of combined disability experience and has helped over 61,000 individuals receive their benefits. Best of all, your initial consultation is no-cost; call us today to schedule yours: 866-815-5244.
Parmele Disability Advocates. Helping you get the benefits you deserve.