The Social Security Disability evaluation process boils down to five questions. After Social Security determines that you have not worked since the date you alleged your disability began, it then determines whether not you have a "severe medical impairment." To make this determination, Social Security will look at not just one medical condition, but all the medical conditions and their combined effect on the ability to work. If the condition or combination of medical conditions significantly limits your ability to perform basic work, then your condition is severe.
In our experience, a significant impact on the ability to do basic work activities is the same as "more than a minimal impact" on the ability to do basic work activity. This is a relatively low hurdle to jump on your way to proving Social Security Disability. However, it is still crucial.
If you are concerned about whether you can establish that your medical conditions are severe, give us a call at 503-325-8600. We can explain how this works, and answer any other questions you have with your Social Security Disability claim.
