To decide whether an applicant for Social Security benefits is disabled, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses what is called the “Blue Book.” When the agency reaches step three of its five-part disability evaluation process, it reviews the applicant’s medical history to determine whether his or her medical condition satisfies the strict requirements necessary to qualify as a disability.
When you are applying for Social Security benefits, or appealing from an adverse decision regarding your benefits, it is extremely important to properly identify the impairment or impairments from which you suffer from and to have strong supporting medical documentation on hand to support your claim.
An experienced Oklahoma City physical impairments disability attorney can make sure this happens.
Identifying Your Impairments
Physical impairments are identified in the Blue Book as disabilities that are severe enough to prevent a person from performing any gainful activity. There are 13 listed physical impairments with multiple subcategories. All of the identified physical impairments must be permanent or expected to result in death. We have helped people suffering from a variety of disabilities, including those involving:
- Cancer of all types
- Endocrine disorders
- Blood disorders such as chronic and severe anemia or sickle cell
- Back problems and other musculoskeletal conditions
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma and other respiratory conditions
- Genitourinary impairment such as kidney failure or transplant
- Chronic skin conditions that ulcerate or become infected
- Hearing loss or sight loss
- Heart conditions
- Impairments affecting multiple body systems
- Autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries, epilepsy/seizures, multiple sclerosis
- Digestive problems such as liver failure and hepatitis
Why Should You Hire an Oklahoma City Physical Impairments Disability Lawyer?
If you are applying for disability benefits due to a physical impairment, the claims process can be complicated and time-sensitive. A denial can delay the financial support you need, forcing you to go through appeals and additional medical evaluations.
Your Oklahoma City physical impairments disability attorney with The Law Center for Social Security Disability helps you gather the medical evidence required to prove the severity of your condition. Social Security Disability (SSD) claims require detailed records, doctor evaluations, and proof that your impairment prevents you from working. Without strong documentation, your claim may be rejected, leading to months or even years of waiting for benefits.
If your claim is denied, legal representation can make a difference during the appeals process. An attorney can argue your case before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), cross-examine medical experts, and present additional evidence. The sooner you involve an attorney, the stronger your case may be.
What is the Most Commonly Approved Disability?
Certain conditions are more frequently approved for disability benefits than others. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims are most commonly granted for musculoskeletal disorders, which affect movement and physical function. These conditions often cause chronic pain, mobility limitations, and the inability to perform work-related tasks:
- Arthritis and joint disorders – Severe cases of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and degenerative joint disease often qualify for benefits.
- Spinal conditions – Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other degenerative spine conditions can make standing, walking, or lifting difficult. Severe back issues frequently result in SSD approval due to the long-term pain and physical limitations they cause.
- Neurological disorders – Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and muscular dystrophy can severely impact motor function. If a disorder limits movement or causes muscle weakness, it may be approved for benefits.
- Respiratory conditions – This can include severe cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis can make breathing difficult.
- Cardiovascular diseases – Heart failure, coronary artery disease, and other cardiac conditions can prevent individuals from maintaining employment. If a heart condition affects stamina, circulation, or overall physical function, the SSA may approve benefits based on its severity.
- Cancer and immune system disorders – Advanced-stage cancer, lupus, and HIV/AIDS may qualify for disability benefits if they significantly impact daily functioning. Some conditions fall under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program, allowing for faster approval.
What is the 5-Year Rule for Social Security Disability?
The SSA enforces a five-year rule that affects eligibility for disability benefits. If you previously worked but stopped due to a disability, you must have enough work credits within the past five years to qualify for SSDI. Work credits are earned based on income and employment history, making them essential for claim approval.
If you have not worked in several years, you may lose eligibility for SSDI benefits. For example, if you stopped working due to an injury but did not file for disability right away, you may be ineligible if more than five years have passed. However, you may still qualify for SSI, which is based on financial need rather than work history.
The five-year rule can create complications for individuals who wait too long to apply. If your work credits have expired, we can review whether you qualify for other disability programs or determine if an exception applies.
What is the Process for Filing a Disability Claim for Physical Impairments in Oklahoma City?
Filing for disability benefits requires proving that your physical impairment prevents you from working. The SSA reviews medical records, employment history, and functional limitations to determine whether you qualify for benefits. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect when filing a disability claim:
- Submit an initial application – You must complete an application through the SSA, either online, by phone, or in person. The application requires detailed information about your medical condition, work history, and treatment providers. Providing comprehensive records, including physician statements, hospital visits, and test results, can strengthen your claim and reduce the risk of a denial.
- Wait for the SSA to review your claim – After submitting your application, the SSA reviews your medical evidence and work history. The agency will assess whether your condition meets its definition of disability, meaning it must prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. This review process typically takes three to six months, but complex cases or missing information can extend the timeline.
- Undergo a medical evaluation if required – In some cases, the SSA may require a consultative exam (CE) with an independent doctor. This exam provides additional medical evidence to help determine whether your condition qualifies for benefits. Failure to attend a scheduled evaluation can result in a denied claim, so it is essential to comply with all SSA requests.
- Receive an approval or denial decision – Once the SSA completes its review, you will receive a decision by mail. If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving benefits based on your eligibility date. If denied, the letter will explain the reason for denial, and you will have the option to appeal the decision.
- File an appeal if necessary – If your claim is denied, you have 60 days to request a reconsideration. The appeals process includes multiple levels, such as reconsideration, a hearing before an ALJ, and a review by the Appeals Council. Most initial claims are denied, making it crucial to be prepared for an appeal with strong medical evidence and legal representation.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Physical Impairments Disability Case in Oklahoma City?
The timeline for disability claims varies based on several factors, including medical evidence, case complexity, and whether an appeal is necessary. Most initial claims take between six and eight months for a decision per the SSA, but denials can extend the process significantly. If an appeal is required, the wait time increases due to the backlog of disability hearings.
If your claim is denied, requesting a reconsideration may take another three to six months. If the SSA denies your reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an ALJ, which may take a year or longer. Appeals can extend the total wait time to two years or more.
Get Your Benefits with a physical impairments disability attorney in Oklahoma City
There are many other conditions from which people suffer, such as diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia which are not listed impairment. These conditions are evaluated in a different manner.
Many different types of physical impairments can make it difficult or impossible to perform job-related tasks. No matter what condition you have, attorney Gary Jones and The Law Center for Social Security Disability are ready and willing to advocate on your behalf.
When you need an Oklahoma City physical impairments disability lawyer who will work hard to demonstrate that your condition qualifies you for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, contact me at The Law Center for Social Security Disability in Oklahoma City for a free initial consultation. Call me at (405) 236-1416 or fill out my contact form to reach me online.