Changes to Social Security Disability Work History Requirement
How much information do you need to provide about your work history in order to receive Social Security disability benefits? A recent press release from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the agency that handles both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits recently announced that the application process for benefits would become simplified in terms of required work history information. If you are planning to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits, what do you need to know about how the process will change, as well as how it will remain the same? Our national disability benefits attorneys can provide you with the information you need.
Changes in Relevant Work History Requirements in Disability Applications
As the press release explains, until very recently, applications for Social Security administered disability benefits required applicants to provide a work history that went back 15 years “because the inability to work is key to Social Security’s definition of disability.” The definition of a disability is a strict and narrow one, and it is not simply a diagnosis or condition based on limitations, like the definition used by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Yet the SSA recognized that “recalling the details of 15 years of employment — job titles, duties, dates, etc. — can be a major challenge.” Accordingly, the requirements and process for work history have changed. Beginning June 22, 2024, applicants only are required to submit a work history for the past 5 years, and they do not need to submit job information if they had the job for fewer than 30 calendar days. The reduction in work history required is also supposed to result in “a reduction in processing times” for benefit applications, according to the SSA press release.
Proving a “Disability” is Still a Clear and Absolute Requirement
Applicants will still need to prove that they have a disability according to the strict definition used by the SSA, which will require supplying work history information and detailed medical evidence.
To prove a disability for SSDI or SSI benefits, you must be able to show that you have a health condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) — meaning any significant work — and that your condition is expected to last for at least one year or to result in your death.
Contact a National Social Security Disability Benefits Lawyer Today
Although the process has become somewhat simplified for Social Security disability applicants, it is critical to know that you should still seek assistance from a lawyer during the application process. Proving that you meet the required definition of a “disability” such that you are eligible for benefits can be difficult and complicated, and many applicants are denied benefits the first time because they do not provide sufficient materials with their application. An experienced national SSDI benefits attorney at the Law Offices of Stephen Barszcz can ensure that your initial application is as strong as possible, and if you have already received an initial denial of benefits, we can assist you with the appeals process. Contact us today for more information and to receive assistance from one of our lawyers.
Source:
blog.ssa.gov/changes-to-past-relevant-work-and-disability-determinations/
