How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) determine disability?

In Texas, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step process to determine if an individual qualifies for disability. This process begins by determining if the person is engaging in “substantial gainful activity”, which means they are not working or earning too much money. If the person meets this requirement, the SSA will move onto Step 2, which is assessing whether or not the person has a medically severe impairment. This step looks at the individual’s medical records and other documentation to decide if they have an impairment that significantly limits their physical, mental, or ability to do basic work activities. Step 3 looks at whether or not the person’s impairment meets or equals a recognized impairment listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments. If it does, they are considered disabled. If not, the SSA will move onto Step 4. Step 4 is an assessment of the individual’s ability to do any work they’ve done in the past. This includes looking at their physical restrictions, mental limitations, any past work experience, and any skills they may have. Finally, the SSA will move onto Step 5 which determines if the individual can do any other type of work. This includes looking at the person’s age, education level, and any transferable skills they may have. After the analysis, the SSA will make a decision on whether or not the person qualifies for disability.

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How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) determine disability?

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