What are SSA's guidelines for evaluating disability claims?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for evaluating disability claims in Washington. SSA’s guidelines for evaluating disability claims involve an assessment process called the “five-step sequential evaluation.” This involves the following steps: Step 1: Is the individual working? If yes, the claim is denied. Step 2: Does the individual have a severe impairment that limits their ability to do basic work activities? If not, the claim is denied. Step 3: Does the individual’s impairment meet or medically equal the criteria of any of the listed impairments in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments? If yes, the claim is approved. Step 4: Can the individual perform their past relevant work? If yes, the claim is denied. Step 5: Can the individual do any other type of work? If not, the claim is approved. When evaluating a disability claim, the SSA will consider medical and other relevant evidence, such as an individual’s age, education, past work history, and any other evidence that may indicate an individual’s functional capacity to perform work. Additionally, the SSA will consider any evidence of a claimant’s daily activities, such as whether they can walk, stand, sit, lift, carry, remember, complete tasks, or interact with others. The SSA will also consider information about any accommodations and assistive devices the individual may use. All this information helps the SSA determine whether an individual is disabled, meeting the above five criteria.

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What are SSA's guidelines for evaluating disability claims?

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