What are the disability requirements for SSD and SSI?More than 900,000 people in Kentucky are receiving some kind of disability from Social Security. Social Security has two disability programs: Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income disability. While these programs have differing non-medical requirements, they have the same disability medical requirements. To receive disability under either SSD or SSI, you must not be working and earning more than what Social Security refers to as a substantial and gainful income through substantial work activity. To see the earnings limit, see Earned income limit for disability benefits. To receive disability under the SSI program, you must also not have assets in excess of a maximum of $2000. To see what counts, see Assets and SSI disability. If you are living in Kentucky and you have become unable to work or to perform substantial work activity due to a physical or mental disabling condition, you should contact Social Security for an appointment. Medical disability requirements include providing Social Security with your doctor's information, medications, treatment, and information about your jobs. Social Security will get your doctor's to ascertain if there is sufficient objective medical information to make their determination. If there the medical information in your case file is insufficient, you will be sent for a consultative examination. You may be thinking, why do I need to provide information about my past and present jobs? Social Security uses a five-step sequential evaluation in which, the fourth and fifth step consider your ability to perform your past jobs, or any other kind of job when your age, education, job skills, and functional limitations are considered. If you are not able to perform past work or other work you may be approved for disability. You may also receive a disability award by having a condition in the list of disability conditions and satisfying the criteria of the listing (which can be difficult). This medical evaluation process is the same for all disability claimants in Kentucky and all other states as the system is federal, and it does not matter which disability program you qualify for. 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? Individual Questions and Answers |
