|
The SSI disability program uses the same criteria as regular Social Security disability for medical determinations. If a medical or mental impairment has prevented you from engaging in work activity above the substantial gainful work activity limit for the past twelve months or is expected to prevent you from performing substantial gainful work activity for twelve months, the impairment or condition is a qualifying condition for SSI disability. The Social Security Administration determines disability based on how your condition or conditions prevent you from performing substantial gainful work activity, not your specific medical or mental conditions. Put another way, a person who attempts to win disability benefits will be evaluated not based on their diagnosed conditions (for example, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, or fibromyalgia), but, instead, on how their condition or conditions actually affect them and limit their ability to work. The evaluation process for SSI is no different than the process for SSD. In fact, the only substantial difference between the two programs is that SSI based on one's need and is generally available to individuals who do not qualify for social security disability benefits. 
Social Security Disability and SSI Disability Information
Disability Advocates Help with Claims Free Case Evaluation |