Arizona Social Security disability benefits are designed to provide income to those who are not able to work as a result of having a covered disability. Being disabled for purposes of social security disability benefits may not be the same as being disabled under other benefit programs, such as workers’ compensation, and it is important that you understand the criteria for being considered disabled in order to determine your eligibility for benefits.
Listing of Impairments
The Social Security Administration will find a person disabled if they either meet or equal the requirement of what is referred to as the “Listing of Impairments” or the person proves that (s)he is unable to perform either her/his past work (usually work performed in the last 15 years) and is unable, because of medical impairments, to perform any alternative work after considering the claimant’s age, education and work experience.
The Listing of Impairments is contained in the Social Security Administration’s regulations. It is a comprehensive list of different body systems and conditions that afflict both adults and children. If your condition is listed, you must meet the specific criteria spelled out in the Listing or have a combination of impairments that equals a listed impairment.
In addition to proving your condition is severe enough, you must also prove it is long term (has lasted for 12 or more months or will last that long), and you must also meet other specific criteria dependent upon whether you apply for benefits through Supplemental Security Income (SSI) (which requires you to be indigent and disabled) or Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) (which requires you to be insured and disabled). An experienced attorney can help you to determine if you meet the Arizona Social Security disability benefits requirement based on your medical condition and financial/work status.
To speak to an experienced attorney about Arizona Social Security Disability benefits call Schiffman Law Office, P.C. at (602) 235-0539 today!
