You can file for Social Security Disability for a mental disorder or problem if it interferes with substantial gainful activityYou may file for Social Security Disability or SSI for a mental problem or disorder, if it prevents you from performing substantial gainful work activity. Social Security does not differentiate between physical and mental problems; simply the condition is so severe that it prevents the performance of any kind of substantial work activity (SGA). An evaluation on the basis of a mental disorder or problem requires an impairment that is documented by objective medical evidence, a consideration of the limitations that your mental disorder or disease imposes on your ability to work, and an evaluation as to whether these limitations will last for twelve continuous months or more. In order to make this determination, disability examiners use a disability guide book that contains nine diagnostic mental impairment listings:
If your mental disorder or problem meets or equals the criteria of an impairment listing, Social Security determines that you could not reasonably be expected to perform any gainful work activity. If your mental condition does not meet or equal an impairment listing in severity, then you may or may not have the residual functional capacity to perform substantial work activity. The decision on your case would be dependent on what social security considers to be your mental functional capacity, referred to as your MRFC, or mental residual functional capacity. A determination of your mental residual functional capacity is critical to the evaluation of your ability to perform SGA when your mental disorder or problem does not meet or equal the criteria of a specific impairment listing. The mental residual functional capacity evaluation (MRFC) is a detailed description of work related abilities you have in spite of the limitations of your mental disorder. An assessment of your residual functional capacity is necessary to satisfy paragraphs B and C of most mental impairment listings. The definition of Social Security Disability is defined by three factors: a severe mental or physical condition, inability to perform substantial gainful work activity, and a twelve-month continuous period of disability. If you meet these criteria you can file for and potentially be approved for Social Security Disability or SSI 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: How does a Disability Lawyer or Representative get paid in North Carolina? Can You Get Approved For SSI or SSD Benefits IF You Have A Mental Condition But Do Not Take Medication? Will Your Claim for Disability be Handled Differently if it is Based on a Physical or Mental Problem? Can I Qualify For Disability and Receive Benefits based on Depression? The Social Security Disability and SSI Process for Mental Claims based on Mental Disorders When you file for disability and have both Mental and Physical Conditions What kind of Mental Problems Qualify for Disability? Are SSI and Social Security Disability Requirements Tougher For Mental Claims? Social Security Disability, SSI, Mental Disorders, and Functional Limitations Why is Charcot-marie-tooth not on the Social Security Disability list of impairments? Tips for SSD and SSI disability hearings Getting a Disability Lawyer in Pennsylvania If you apply for disability in Pennsylvania Will I qualify for disability Benefits in Pennsylvania? |
