Partial Disability, Earnings, and Treatment Questions about Social Security Benefits
12/14/08
Q: Can I get Social Security benefits for partial disability?
A: There aren't many short, simple answers when it comes to Social Security benefits. But in this case, the answer is a simple "no." Though some other federal and state programs offer benefits to the partially disabled, social security benefits do not. According to the SSA, an applicant either has a qualifying disability, or he or she does not. When applying for social security benefits, you will either be considered 100% disabled or not disabled, making you either approved or denied.
Q: If my doctors say that treatment won't improve my condition, why do I need to keep seeing them?
A: Even in the case that a medical professional cannot improve your condition, seeing a doctor regularly is very important for getting social security benefits. Why is this? Getting medical attention is key because the documentation it creates is a huge part of proving your disability and receiving social security benefits. As evidence of a disability, the SSA will look at your medical records. If there is little or no medical documentation of your disability, there is an overwhelming chance that your Social Security benefits claim will be denied.
When you request social security benefits, documenting and tracking your disability is your own responsibility. If you are applying or plan to apply for Social Security benefits, it is very important to regularly see a doctor; even if you're not receiving treatment. Be sure your doctor keeps track of your symptoms to give the SSA a thorough history of your disability. The more supporting evidence found in your medical records, the greater your chance of being approved for Social Security benefits.
Q: My disability allows me to work, but I cannot earn the same amount of money I did before. Am I allowed to apply for social security benefits?
A: In this case, yes, you can apply for social security benefits. But your claim may not necessarily be approved. When the SSA decides whether or not you are eligible for social security benefits, one of the first things they look at is if you can do the same work you used to. If you cannot do that same work, they will then try to determine whether or not you can make a substantial income in another type of position. In essence, whether or not you will qualify for Social Security benefits will depend on what kind of work you would be able to do, and how much you might earn.
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