13 Apr Advantage of Being a Veteran Over 50

The SSA uses a standard procedure in order to determine eligibility for Social Security disability benefits. According to the SSA, this procedure follows a step-by-step process that encompasses these five important questions: 

• Are you working? If you’re currently working you must make less than $1,080 gross income per month in order to be eligible for disability benefits.
• Is your condition “severe”? Your medical condition must be so severe that it interferes with basic work-related activities.
• Is your condition found on the list of disabling conditions? The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions that are classified as so severe they may automatically qualify you for disability benefits. If the condition you suffer from isn’t listed, it is up to the SSA to decide if the severity of your medical issue is equivalent to a condition that’s on the list. If the SSA determines your condition is equivalent, then you may qualify for disability benefits. However, if it is not found to be equivalent, the SSA will move on to Step 4 in determining your eligibility.
• Can you do the work you previously did? In order to qualify for disability benefits your condition must prevent you from performing the work you previously did. If the SSA decides you have the ability to perform your previous job up to par, then your disability claim will most likely be denied.
• Can you do any other type of work? If the SSA comes to the determination that you can adjust to other types of work, then your disability claim will be denied. Hence why it is extremely important to provide medical evidence to the SSA detailing how your medical condition limits your work ability.

How does age determine if you are disabled?

Your age, education, and past work experience will all be considered when determining if you can adjust to another type of work. There are specific rules, commonly known as “grid rules”, that are used to determine your remaining capacity for work. The determination is not based on age alone, but the rules do take into consideration that older workers have a more difficult time transitioning back to the workforce. Therefore, the rules are generally more favorable to veterans over the age of 50.

For example, a 50-year-old may get approved for disability benefits while a 49-year-old with the same impairment, education and work experience may get denied based simply upon the implemented ‘special rules’ for applicants over 50.

**Veterans receiving full retirement from Social Security are not eligible for SSDI.

Veterans interested in applying for VA Disability Compensation or Social Security Disability with the help of Victory Disability should call 1-866-350-7229. To determine if you are eligible for SSDI benefits, complete the Social Security Disability Evaluation.