People in West Virginia who are unable to work may seek to obtain Social Security Disability benefits. One of the most important parts of an application is a documented medical history that makes clear the physical or mental disabilities that prevent the claimant from working. Applicants can provide detailed information about their doctors and the treatment they have received as well as the expected prognosis. However, medical records are not the only thing needed to apply for disability benefits. Another key piece of an application is a record of the claimant’s work history.
The Social Security Administration uses the information to determine if applicants are able to return to work. Applicants’ work history and experiences are relevant to a determination of their disability. For example, a person who has done physical labor all of their life and has no additional training would in most cases not be expected to take a job as a computer programmer or an accountant after a physically disabling injury. The SSA relies on the information in a claimant’s application to make these determinations.
In order to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits, applicants must show that they have an impairment that is severe and will last for at least a full year. This impairment must also prevent the applicant from earning a substantial income. In order to make this decision, examiners assess the type of work done in the past and other jobs applicants may be able to do.
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a complex, lengthy process, but it can be an important safeguard for people who cannot return to work. A disability law attorney may be able to help claimants to navigate the system from an initial application to an appeals hearing.