To be Awarded Disability Benefits in North Carolina, How Severe Does Your Condition Need to Be?To understand how severe your condition needs to be to be awarded Social Security Disability benefits in North Carolina, you must first understand the definition of disability. Social Security has defined a disabling condition as any condition that has prevented a person from performing substantial work activity for at least twelve months, or can be expected to prevent a person from engaging in substantial gainful activity for twelve months. An individual may be awarded disability benefits for any condition as long as the condition has limited their residual functioning (what an individual is able to do in spite of the limitations caused by their condition) so significantly that they are unable to engage in routine daily activities such as working, driving, shopping, etc. So how does Social Security determine the severity of your mental and/or medical problem? Once your disability claim is received at the state disability agency, NC DDS, an examiner obtains your medical records from the physicians and hospitals that you provided at your initial disability interview. In addition to your medical records in NC, both you and your third party (the person you provided during your interview as someone who knows about your condition or conditions) may receive questionnaires that review your ability to perform routine daily activities. Disability examiners make their disability determinations based upon the objective medical evidence, third party and daily activity questionnaires, your educational background, and your work history. Keep in mind that Social Security Disability in North Carolina and all states (the program is federal) is based upon residual functional capacity rather than specific medical and/or mental conditions. If your condition has caused your residual functional capacity to be so restricted that it prevents substantial work activity, your medical and /or mental condition may be so severe that you may be awarded disability benefits. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Can disability be awarded for depression for a time until I am fully recovered? Can I get short term Social Security Disability? Can I get both Social Social Security Disability and SSI? SSD lawyer pay when they win the case Can I apply for Social Security Disability while on workers compensation? If you are on Social Security retirement can you file for disability? Do you have a better chance of being approved for disability with a physician's statement? Does Social Security contact your employer when you apply for disability? When should I seek representation for my disability claim? SSI Back Pay after being Approved Social Security Disability Approval and Denial Rates Can I collect on my spouse's VA disability and my SSDI? If I apply for disability will they cut my husband's disability? |
