Those who are unable to work at their jobs may not be helped by having an advanced degree. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits for some workers under certain conditions. Unfortunately, the process can be even more challenging for those who are highly educated. To find out how to overcome this unfair bias and get the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits you need, read below.
The Work You Cannot Do
The SSA approval process looks carefully at the tasks of your most recent job. When you apply for benefits, you are stating that you cannot perform those tasks anymore. Applicants have to prove that their medical or mental condition makes it impossible to do those tasks by showing proof of their condition using medical records, doctors' letters, and sometimes undergoing exams. The SSA uses the information you include about your previous job to make the evaluation as they compare the position description information from vocational sources to your own job. The problem here is that the SSA occasionally gets things wrong. Your job and the tasks may be far too unique to be categorized using a vocational statistical manual.
The Work You Can Do
Once the SSA determines that you cannot perform the duties of your previous job, the approval process is only half over. Now the SSA compares your training and education to that of other possible jobs. SSDI applicants must show that they cannot perform the duties of other jobs to gain benefits. That means jobs that the applicant is qualified for and that are available in the local commuting area. Unfortunately, this is one area where having a lot of experience and education can work against applicants. The SSA can and will turn down applicants if they judge them to be employable in alternative positions. The only way to overcome that bias in to plead your case in person.
The SSDI Appeal Hearing
Once an applicant is turned down, the journey for SSDI benefits is far from over. Each applicant is presented with a golden opportunity to appear before a hearing officer to explain their case. Doing so with a Social Security lawyer by your side is highly recommended. Lawyers who practice Social Security law understand what the officer needs to know to award you benefits. For example, your lawyer can explain why there are no suitable positions for you despite your high level of education. To find out more about how a lawyer can help you get the benefits you need, speak to a Social Security disability lawyer today.
Share4 June 2020
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