Qualifying Conditions

Qualifying Conditions for Social Security Disability

What conditions are recognized as disabling by the Social Security Administration (SSA)?

Social Security Disability (SSD) was set up to provide financial assistance when you are disabled and unable to work. When you apply for Social Security Disability, the main thing the Social Security Administration looks at is your medical condition and how it prevents you from working. Understanding how the SSA looks at medical conditions is crucial in presenting your claim for Social Security.

The Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC provides sound legal advice and skilled representation as you navigate the process of applying for Social Security Disability.

Unlike workers’ compensation benefits, Social Security benefits only go to people who meet the detailed standards for disability as defined by the SSA.  The basic factors the SSA considers are:

  • Are you unable to perform work you have performed in the past 15 years?
  • Does your medical condition keep you from adapting to a different type of work?
  • Will your inability to work last over a year or result in death?

Once you file for Social Security Disability, your application and medical evidence are evaluated in conjunction with these factors and against certain conditions recognized by the SSA.

Disabling Medical Conditions

The SSA outlines specific medical conditions and how these conditions may qualify you for disability.  These guidelines, called the Blue Book, cover disorders throughout the brain and body and are broken down into 14 categories:

  • Musculoskeletal System
  • Special Senses and Speech
  • Respiratory System
  • Cardiovascular System
  • Digestive System
  • Genitourinary Disorders
  • Hematological Disorders
  • Skin Disorders
  • Endocrine Disorders
  • Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
  • Neurological
  • Mental Disorders
  • Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
  • Immune System Disorders

In 2008, the SSA created a list of Compassionate Allowance Conditions (CAL). CAL speeds up the evaluation of claims for people with conditions that are clearly severe and disabling.  CAL claims bring several specific considerations.

  • The Social Security Disability application process is no different if you have a CAL condition.
  • Social Security attempts to process CAL claims in weeks instead of months or years.
  • Just because you have a CAL condition does not mean you will automatically qualify for disability.
  • Even if you have a CAL condition, if you have not worked enough within the last years before your disability, you still may not qualify for Social Security Disability.

For any SSD or SSI application, we assist you through the process and prepare you for your final hearing with an Administrative Law Judge.

If you have questions about Social Security Disability, SSI, CAL or Social Security in general, the Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC can provide answers and advice on what to do next.

Trusted help with Social Security Disability appeals in North Florida

With offices in Gainesville, Florida, the Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC offers comprehensive legal advice regarding Social Security Disability to disabled people throughout North Florida.  If we do not obtain benefits for you, there is no fee.

We offer evening and weekend appointments and can travel to you if you cannot come to our office.  Call us at 352-264-1910 or contact us online for a consultation.

 

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Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC 13820 W. Newberry Road, Suite 200
Newberry, FL 32669

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