Social Security Disability (SSD) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to long-term health conditions. A disability qualifies as permanent if it is expected to last at least one year or result in death. 

SSD permanent benefits are available only to individuals who are totally disabled. This means they are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity, which is defined as paying work involving significant physical or mental activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates the impact of the applicant’s condition on tasks like lifting, standing, walking, sitting and remembering. Also considered is whether the applicant can adjust to other work based on their age, education and work experience. 

There are multiple types of conditions that can qualify as permanent disabilities. The following are examples:

  1. Musculoskeletal disorders — Conditions like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, various spinal conditions and carpal tunnel syndrome can severely limit physical functions such as mobility, dexterity and strength.

  2. Vision loss — Blindness or severe visual impairments make it challenging to engage in occupations that require visual accuracy.  Statutory blindness, for SSD purposes, generally means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the use of a correcting lens.  However, blindness in just one eye does not qualify.

  3. Hearing loss — Severe deafness or significant hearing impairments can inhibit the ability to communicate effectively, even with the use of a hearing aid, which is essential to most jobs. 

  4. Cardiovascular conditions — Congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and other conditions affecting the heart can be a severe physical limitation. 

  5. Autoimmune disorders — Diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis can impact various bodily functions, making consistent employment challenging. 

  6. Mental health disorders — Conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and severe depression are evaluated for their impact on one’s ability to function socially and professionally.

If you are an applicant for SSD benefits, an experienced Social Security Disability attorney can help in documenting the condition accurately, adhering to application procedures and effectively communicating the severity and impact of the disability to the SSA. The attorney can also assist in the appeals process if an initial claim is denied, which is a common occurrence.

Massengill, Caldwell & Coughlin, PC diligently pursues your SSD claim from the initial application to the final approval. Based in Bristol, we represent individuals with disabilities across the Tri-Cities area of Tennessee and Virginia. Call us at 423-797-6022 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.