Definition of Disability

Eligibility requirements established by the Social Security Administration

When you are not working due to health problems, you may be eligible for SSD or SSI if your injury or condition results in your inability to do any substantial gainful activity and has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months. A fully disabling condition that can be expected to result in death also qualifies.

Many claims are denied because the claimant's condition has not been legally shown to meet this definition. The social security disability attorneys at David Allen & Associates help you prove your disabled status by using medical records, expert witnesses and any other available evidence.

What is substantial gainful activity?

Substantial activity refers to any work that requires performance of significant physical or mental duties, or both. Gainful activity is employment that realistically contributes to your ability to support yourself and your family. The SSA typically considers earnings over $1000 per month to be gainful. Our social security disability attorneys help demonstrate that your disabling condition truly prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity.

What types of impairments are generally accepted as disabilities?

The Social Security Administration places disabling conditions into 14 categories, known as the list of impairments:

Each impairment category comes with an extensive explanation of the specific qualifying conditions. Many workplace injuries, such as accidental amputations or back injuries, fall under the category of impairments to the musculoskeletal system.

While having a condition on the list of impairments does not automatically establish your disabled status, it is a major factor in the SSA's decision about granting you benefits. Our social security disability lawyers focus on demonstrating that your disability is found within the list of impairments.

Are some medical conditions taken more seriously than others?

There are 88 medical conditions that qualify as disabilities under the compassionate allowance doctrine. These conditions are so severe that the SSA has expressed a commitment to efficiently processing applications by people who are afflicted. Still, it is necessary to prove that you unquestionably have one of these conditions. David Allen & Associates has access to medical experts who help us present convincing evidence of your disabling medical condition.

Establish your disability with help from skilled social security disability attorneys

At David Allen & Associates, we know how to help you meet the standard for disability and move your SSD or SSI claim forward. Contact us online or call us at 1-877-876-4800 to make an appointment for a free consultation.

You do not pay attorney's fees unless we successfully help you collect disability benefits.