The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates an applicant on a variety of factors when determining whether he or she is “disabled” and entitled to Social Security disability benefits.  Unfortunately, being unable to work does not guarantee your application will be granted, but generally, if you are unable to do any of your past jobs or to work full time at another job, you should apply for benefits.  If your initial application is denied, continue appealing until you obtain a hearing before an administrative law judge.  Even if you are unsuccessful at the hearing, you may still obtain benefits if your Milwaukee Social Security disability attorney identifies an effective strategy for presenting your case to the Appeals Council at the next appellate level.

One thing to keep in mind as you decide whether to apply for benefits is that the SSA eases the eligibility requirements as you age.  For instance, if you are over age 45, your chances of obtaining benefits are greater if you are unable to speak English.  If your impairment allows you to do relatively easy jobs but you are over age 50, you can still qualify for benefits.  If you are over age 55 and are unable to do any of the jobs you have done in the last fifteen years, you have a good chance at qualifying.  If you choose to apply, your Milwaukee Social Security disability attorney will identify all of the characteristics you have that might meet the SSA’s standards for classifying you as “disabled” so that you have the best possible chance at success.

For further information on the application process, please contact Milwaukee social security disability attorney Tom Bush.