Myths About Social Security Disability Debunked: Part 2

There are numerous myths and misconceptions about Social Security Disability. Here are some of the most frequent comments we receive, along with the often-unknown truths: 

Myth: Many of the people receiving Social Security disability benefits are not truly disabled.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict definition of “disability”, as well as a very thorough application process. To be awarded disability benefits, a claimant must first meet the basic requirements: sufficient work credits, condition is expected to last long enough, not earning too much. Beyond this, he/she must have a comprehensive application that includes a detailed work and medical history. With that being said, every person who is receiving benefits is able to do so because they are in fact disabled.

Myth: A doctor’s statement that an individual is disabled is enough evidence for the SSA to declare disability.

There are several factors that contribute to a disability determination. The SSA will not award benefits to an applicant based on just one of these factors, instead, all evidence is taken into consideration. This is not to undermine the impact of a physician’s statement. Having sufficient medical evidence and the support of your doctor is extremely valuable during the application process.

Myth: You cannot receive workers’ compensations and Social Security Disability simultaneously.

You can receive both workers’ compensation and SSDI, however, your benefits may be reduced. There is a “workers’ compensation offset” rule that is used to determine the amount that will be deducted from your disability benefits.

Myth: You will automatically be denied benefits if you drink alcohol or take drugs.

The fact here is that the SSA will deny disability claims that are based solely on drug and alcohol addiction. A claim will not be denied solely on the use of these substances if there is a non-related medical condition. Simply put: a legitimate claim can be approved despite an applicant’s substance abuse, given that the use of drugs/alcohol is not a contributing factor to the condition itself. If the “disabling” condition is caused or worsened by the substances, the claim will most likely be denied.

Myth: A mental disability, such as PTSD, will prohibit you from buying and owning guns.

The SSA is no longer required to send mental health records to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System. In other words, those with a mental illness verified by the SSA will not be added to the gun check register. Because of this, persons with a mental health condition are still able to own and purchase guns.

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