If you’re just beginning to explore your options for applying for Social Security Disability in Halifax, you may be wondering what kinds of factors will affect your results. Age does play a role in how the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your case, more specifically how your age relates to your ability to work.
Can You Work?
When the SSA is making a decision about a person’s case, the most important element being assessed is the applicant’s ability to work. When making this determination, the SSA will take into account the individual’s previous work experience and educational background. It is generally understood that individuals under 50 years of age have a better chance of retraining and rejoining the workforce, leading to fewer approvals below this age.
Functional Capacity Evaluations
Individuals under 45 are not by any means barred from receiving benefits. Regardless of age, the inability to work is the primary factor in triggering benefits. When deciding if an applicant is able to work, the SSA may require a functional capacity evaluation (FCE), an objective process that involves a series of tests and observations. The result will determine which of the four residual functional capacity (RFC) categories the applicant meets.
- Sedentary Work.The worker must be able to sit for up to 6 hours during an 8 hour shift and occasionally lift up to 10 lb.
- Light Work. The worker is able to stand and walk for up to 6 hours of an 8 hour day. They are able to lift 10 lb. frequently and 20 lb. occasionally.
- Medium Work. The worker can stand and walk for up to 6 hours of an 8 hour day, lifting 25 lb. frequently and 50 lb. occasionally.
- Heavy Work. The worker is able to do all of the activities in the medium category and more.
Medical-Vocational Allowances
Those who do not meet the assessment criteria for medical disability may still receive benefits due to vocational disadvantage. An individual who is somewhat physically disabled but significantly inhibited from learning a more sedentary vocation may still be approved for benefits. The SSA recognizes that individuals with limited work and educational experiences are less likely to find a job and retrain for sufficient employment.
Applying for Social Security Disability in Halifax?
We want to help. The application process for Social Security disability in Halifax can be intimidating to those unfamiliar with it, and missing crucial information can cause unnecessary delays. The Cunningham Law Group values meeting with our clients and can provide the one-on-one attention some national firms cannot. If you’re curious to know more about what we can do for you, please contact us for a free consultation.