Can You Pass The Severity Requirement For Social Security Disability?

Can You Pass The Severity Requirement For Social Security Disability?

Everyone thinks their condition is severe. Let’s face it, or otherwise they would be working a full-time job. Anyone I have met would rather be working than waiting for up to two years or more to find out their Social Security disability claim has been denied.

But, the Social Security Administration doesn’t always see it that way.

In order to be found disabled, you must pass the rigorous Five-Step sequential evaluation. At any time, other than Step Three, you cannot pass each step, your claim will be denied.

So, let’s talk about Step Two, the severity requirement.

At Step Two, it must be determined that your condition or conditions severely impair your ability to do basic work activities such as walking, standing, carrying and holding things, remembering simple instructions, and generally being able to interact with the general public and/or your co-workers (for example). If your condition or conditions severely limit your ability to do basic work activities, then you will be at least allowed to move on to Step 3, 4 and 5.

How does one show that his or her condition is severe?

First, you have to be getting medical treatment for your condition. Without recent medical records to show that your condition is still severe, then you will likely fail Step 2. Recent medical records pertaining specifically to your condition is likely the most important factor in determining whether you are disabled.

Further, you need to be getting the appropriate treatment. Simply going to the same doctor that treats you for your yearly cold is not going to usually be enough. This is especially true if you have a very specific condition that requires some type of specialist. Now, not all of us can afford to be seen by the best specialists in the their field, but you should at least attempt to have at least one evaluation.

Lastly, your medical records needs to reveal what kind of limitations you have. If you do have trouble walking, standing, or sitting, then your medical records need to show these types of limitations. Try to have at least some type of testing to better reveal these issues so they are easy to spot within your records. Not only does this increase your chances of success, but it helps speed up your case. Your case manager will not feel such a need to order you to be seen by a Social Security doctor, which will at least delay an answer in your case for one to two months more.

We represent claimants throughout Texas and California fighting for their Social Security disability benefits. You may always call us at: (888) 780-9125.