WHAT IS THE SECOND STEP OF THE DISABILITY REVIEW PROCESS?
The SSA uses a five step review process to decide if you qualify for SSD benefits. Therefore, before you file an application for Social Security benefits, it is important to understand each step of the review process.
Specifically, step two is important because it is a threshold step. If you aren’t able to get past step two, then you have not met the threshold requirement of having a severe medical condition. As such, understanding step two of the review process will help you win your benefits.
The first step in the review process asks: are you working. If you are working full-time then you cannot even apply for SSDI or SSI benefits. However, if you are not working, then the step two question is: Do you have a severe medical condition?
In this blog, we will explore the definition of step two of the disability review process. Additionally, we’ll provide tips to enhance your success in winning monthly SSDI and SSI payments.
STEP TWO: DO YOU HAVE A SEVERE MEDICAL CONDITION?
When medical evidence establishes only a slight medical issue which has no more than a minimal effect on your ability to work, then your medical condition is “not severe.” For example, a broken arm is not severe because it will heal within a matter of months. Likewise, a problem like high blood pressure, that you can control with medication, is not a severe medical issue. Normally, you would not receive benefits for such minor medical problems.
Therefore, to proceed through the SSA review process, you must prove you have a severe physical or mental condition. If the SSA finds your condition is not severe, then they will deny your claim for benefits.
Some people have severe medical conditions but are still able to work. Usually, this is because treatment and medications control their medical condition. For example, if insulin controls your severe diabetes type 2, then your illness would not be severe. Millions of people have diabetes and they still are able to work. It is when their symptoms no longer respond to treatment, that it impacts the ability to work.
UNDERSTANDING THE DURATION TEST IN THE DISABILITY REVIEW PROCESS
The duration test is a critical component of step two. It serves to ensure that only those with long term illness qualify for SSDI and SSI benefits. To pass this test, your medical condition must meet two key criteria:
Expectation of Death: Your condition must not be expected to result in death. This means that the SSA is looking for conditions that are serious but not terminal. If your impairment is life-threatening, it may be evaluated differently under other criteria.
Duration of the Condition: Your medical condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, for a continuous period of at least 12 months. This requirement is in place to filter out temporary conditions that may not significantly impact your ability to work in the long run.
If your condition does not meet these criteria, your claim may be denied at this stage. It’s important to provide medical records that clearly outline the nature of your condition and how it affects your daily life and ability to work.
The SSA will deny your benefits if your medical condition fails the duration test. That is, if your medical condition (1) is not expected to result in death, and (2) has neither lasted 12 months nor is expected to last for a continuous period of 12 months, then you fail the test. The SSA uses the duration test at step 2. But the SSA can invoke the same test at step 3, 4, or 5. You can learn about all five steps of the disability review process.
TIPS FOR MEETING THE DURATION TEST
Go To the Doctor: You must have medical evidence to prove your medical condition.
Gather Medical Evidence: Ensure you have all of the medical records from your healthcare providers. The record detail the history and prognosis of your condition. This includes treatment plans, progress notes, and any test results.
Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities. This can help illustrate the severity and persistence of your condition.
Consult with Specialists: If applicable, seek evaluations from specialists who can provide insights into the long-term implications of your condition. Their expert opinions can strengthen your case.
Stay Informed: Understand the specific requirements of the SSA regarding the duration test. Familiarize yourself with the types of conditions that typically meet the duration criteria.
By meeting the duration test, you can enhance your chances of successfully navigating step two of the review process. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate that your condition is severe and impacts your ability to work now and into the future.
The SSA’s decision is based on medical opinions and exams from your doctor and the SSA’s doctors. Learn what to expect at the SSA doctor exam.
