Even if your disability is not severe enough to match the requirements for a listing in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book Listing of Impairments, you may still be able to receive disability benefits based on your functional limitations, called a medical-vocational allowance.
Many disability applicants do not meet the Social Security Administration’s definitions of impairments which detail severe illnesses. However, many applicants can still obtain benefits if they have functional restrictions that prevent them from working. In fact, the majority of applicants are granted benefits through a medical-vocational allowance.
Functional Limitations and Disability Decisions
If a disability examiner decides that your condition does not meet a Blue Book impairment listing, he or she must consider the disabling qualities of your condition before rejecting your claim. To do this, the examiner will forward your file to a medical consultant like a psychologist or doctor that works at Disability Determination Services (DDS).
From there, the medical specialist will conduct a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) test on your claim by evaluation your medical documents, lab results, doctor’s notes and other testing to determine the level of functional ability you have.
An RFC test will assess any restrictions that prevent you from working. For example, you may not be able to lift more than 20 pounds or your eyesight may restrict you from driving. The medical consultant will take these into account and assign a residual function capacity level for you.
If your RFC level prevents you from performing a job you did within the previous 15 years or from learning a new job, the medical consultant will determine you cannot conduct work and therefore should be eligible for benefits.
If you are disabled and need to apply for disability benefits or if you have been denied benefits, contact Dayes Law Firm PC and speak to a trusted Social Security Disability benefits attorney in Phoenix today. We will walk you through the disability process and advocate for your rights.
Call 1-800-503-2000 today for a free, no obligation consultation.