Social Security Disability and my past work performanceWill Social Security consult previous employers to inquire about impairments to my job performance? On the majority of disability claims, its very unlikely that a disability examiner will actually contact any of your previous employers. It does happen occasionally, but even when it does it is often to simply get a description of a claimant's job duties and the dates they were employed. However, there are cases in which a disability examiner will ask about a claimant's work performance or whether or not they received what are known as special considerations or subsidy from the employer in question. The reason for asking this is to determine whether or not an individual was essentially in a position of protected employment, making the job not truly competitive employment. An example of this type of hiring might include situations in which a person with physical or mental limitations is employed in a job but rather than be subjected to all the duties or responsibilities that ordinarily go along with the job are given special considerations. If special considerations are thought to have existed for a job in a claimant's relevant work history, Social Security may choose to verify those alleged special considerations or subsidy with the employer. They may call the employer or mail them a subsidy questionnaire to complete. This questionnaire allows the employer to address special considerations and the worth of the work you the claimant was performing for them. Depending on their answers, the disability claim may be sent for a medical disability determination or it may be denied for the performance of SGA-level work activity. 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: Social Security evaluates work history when making disability decisions You Must Give Social Security Disability Your Work History When You Apply How are medical records and work history used to determine a Social Security Disability claim? Social Security Disability and the Job that You Worked Social Security Disability, SSI, sedentary work and job skills |
