What qualifies as a disability to get SSI or SSD benefits?
Social Security requires that a claimant have a medically determinable condition that results in more than a minimal interference with the claimant’s daily activities. Such condition can be the result of an illness or injury. In addition, if the condition is accompanied by the specific symptoms and required severity listed in the Social Security Regulations (20 C.F.R., Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1), the claimant automatically medically qualifies for disability benefits. If the condition doesn’t exactly match the requirements of a “listed” condition, a claimant can still obtain benefits if the medical condition prevents (1) the claimant from engaging in the kinds of work the claimant has done during their relevant work life, (2) or from engaging in any job that exists in the national economy in significant numbers, which the claimant might otherwise be qualified for based upon age, education and acquired skills. For more information, check the Social Security Website (www.ssa.gov).
