Your Eligibility for Social Security Benfits
Q: Can I get Social Security benefits for partial disability?
A: In the world of social security benefits, there are not many clear cut answers. But this question has one; and that answer is “no.” Though some other federal and state programs offer benefits to the partially disabled, social security benefits do not. According to the SSA, an applicant either has a qualifying disability, or he or she does not. With Social Security benefits, you are either disabled or you are not disabled, and therefore either approved or denied.
Q: If my doctors say that treatment won’t improve my condition, why do I need to keep seeing them?
A: Even if a doctor cannot treat your disability, seeing a medical professional is a very important part of having your Social Security benefits claim approved. Why are doctors so important? Getting medical attention is key because the documentation it creates is a huge part of proving your disability and receiving social security benefits. As evidence of a disability, the SSA will look at your medical records. If you don’t see a doctor (and therefore have no real documentation of your disability) it is very possible that you will be rejected for social security benefits.
When you request social security benefits, documenting and tracking your disability is your own responsibility. If you wish to apply for Social Security benefits, it is key to be specific and forthright about your symptoms when you speak with your doctor; even if the visits do nothing for your condition. During each visit, assure that your doctor documents your symptoms and your condition. The more supporting evidence found in your medical records, the greater your chance of being approved for Social Security benefits.
Q: My disability allows me to work, but I cannot earn the same amount of money I did before. Am I allowed to apply for social security benefits?
A: In this case, yes, you can apply for social security benefits. But this does not necessarily mean that your claim will be accepted. When calculating a claimant’s eligibility for Social Security benefits, one of the most important questions they will ask is whether or not your disability allows you to do the work you did previously. If you cannot do that same work, they will then try to determine whether or not you can make a substantial income in another type of position. If you work, your eligibility for social security benefits will depend on the kind of work you do and how much money you make doing it.