What are SSA's guidelines for evaluating disability claims?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has established guidelines for evaluating disability claims in California. These guidelines are based on the criteria for determining whether or not an individual is disabled. In order to be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, an individual must meet all of the SSA’s guidelines. The SSA considers an individual disabled if they have a mental or physical condition that makes it difficult or impossible for them to do any substantial gainful activity and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. The individual must also have a medical record that supports the diagnosis of the condition and documentation that shows how the condition has impacted their ability to work and function in daily life. The individual must also provide evidence that the condition is severe enough to prevent them from engaging in any substantially gainful full-time activity. In addition to these guidelines, the SSA also evaluates non-medical criteria such as the individual’s age, education level, and work history when determining disability. The age and education of the individual is used to determine which types of jobs they may be qualified to do despite their disability. The individual’s work history documents their recent work activities and past attempts to return to work. This information is used to determine whether they have the ability to work in spite of their disability. To sum up, in order to be evaluated for disability benefits in California, an individual must meet all of the SSA’s guidelines, including presenting medical records and evidence of their condition as well as providing information about their age, education, and work history.

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