Social Security uses what it calls a “sequential five-step process” to decide disability claims. As you work your way through the steps, if you do not meet the requirement of a step, Social Security can deny you.
We will discuss each step in a separate post.
Please keep in mind that alot of the terms used by Social Security to determine disability have specific legal meanings and probably don’t mean what you think they do.
Step 1: Are you earning SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity)?
If you are not currently working, Social Security will determine at this step that you are not earning SGA, and will move on to Step 2.
If you are working, Social Security uses a set amount to determine if you are earning more or less than SGA. This amount changes each year, and is currently $1,000 per month, before taxes.
There are some exceptions that will reduce the amount you are earning, or will exempt you from the SGA rule:
- Are there any Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) that will reduce your earnings?
- Are you working in what is called “sheltered employment,” where you are getting paid more than you would otherwise if you were not disabled? For example, work at Goodwill often meets this requirement.
- Did the work last for a short period of time? If so, it may qualify as an unsuccessful work attempt, and it would not count as SGA.
If, after looking at your entire situation, Social Security determines that you are earning SGA, they will deny your application. If it is less than SGA, they will move on to Step 2.
The 5-step process:
Step 1: Are you earning SGA?
Step 2: Has your condition lasted long enough?
Step 3: Do you meet or equal a listed impairment?
Step 4: Can you do your past work?
Step 5: Can you do other work?
Social Security uses a different method to determine if a child is disabled.
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This blog provides general information. Do not mistake it for legal advice. Please read our disclaimer.
Related posts:
- What Is the Five-step Process That Social Security Uses to Decide Disability Claims? (Part 2: Severity & Duration)
- What Is the Five-step Process That Social Security Uses to Decide Disability Claims? (Part 3: The Listing of Impairments)
- What Is the Five-step Process That Social Security Uses to Decide Disability Claims? (Part 4: Past Relevant Work)
- What Is the Five-step Process That Social Security Uses to Decide Disability Claims? (Part 5: Other Work)
- How Does Social Security Decide Disability for a Child?
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