The Impact of Age on Social Security Disability Claims

If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in New Mexico, how might your age impact your claim? The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers several factors when determining eligibility for disability benefits, and age is a crucial one. Understanding how your age influences your claim can help you navigate the application process and improve your chances of approval.

Why Does Age Matter in a Disability Claim?

The SSA recognizes that as people age, their ability to adapt to new work environments and learn new job skills diminishes. Because of this, age plays a significant role in the disability determination process. The SSA divides age into different categories, influencing how strict the agency is in evaluating one’s ability to transition to other work.

What Are the Age Categories Used by the SSA?

Younger Individuals (Under Age 50)

If you are under 50, the SSA assumes you are more able to adjust to different types of work. Your claim will need strong medical evidence showing that you cannot perform any substantial gainful activity (SGA), not just your past work. You may be denied benefits if you can still do sedentary jobs requiring minimal physical activity.

Closely Approaching Advanced Age (50-54)

The SSA considers transitioning to new work more difficult if you are between 50 and 54. Depending on your work history, education, and transferable job skills, you may qualify for benefits even if you can do sedentary work. The SSA uses the Medical-Vocational Guidelines, or Grid Rules, to determine eligibility.

Advanced Age (55-59)

If you are between 55 and 59, the SSA is more likely to judge you disabled if you cannot perform your past work. The SSA is less likely to expect you to adapt to new types of work, especially if you have limited education or job skills. The SSA rules are more favorable for this age group, making it easier to qualify for benefits.

Close to Retirement Age (60-65)

If you are 60 or older, the SSA considers it highly unlikely that you will transition to a new occupation. The rules strongly favor applicants in this category, especially those with a history of physically demanding work and little formal education.

How Do the Grid Rules Work?

The SSA’s Grid Rules are important in disability determinations for individuals over 50. These rules consider age, education level, previous work experience, and ability to perform different levels of work, such as sedentary, light, medium, and heavy. For example, if you are 55, have a limited education, and have worked in a physically demanding job for most of your life, the SSA is more likely to approve your claim than a younger individual with similar health conditions.

How Does the SSA Define Sedentary, Light, and Medium Work?

The SSA categorizes different levels of work based on physical exertion requirements. Understanding these categories is essential because the SSA will evaluate whether you can perform any work levels before approving disability benefits.

Sedentary Work

Sedentary work requires lifting no more than 10 pounds at a time. It involves mostly sitting but may require occasional walking and standing. Jobs typically include clerical work, data entry, or customer service roles.

Light Work

Light work requires lifting to 20 pounds occasionally and 10 pounds frequently. It involves a lot of walking, standing, or significant use of hand and foot controls. Jobs may include cashiering, housekeeping, or retail positions.

Medium Work

Medium work requires occasionally lifting 50 pounds and frequently lifting 25 pounds. It involves frequent standing, walking, and physical labor. Jobs may include construction work, warehouse work, or food service roles.

What Medical Evidence Is Required?

Regardless of age, your disability claim must be supported by substantial medical evidence. This includes medical records from doctors, specialists, and hospitals; physician statements about your limitations; and treatment history. While age is a significant factor, the SSA will still evaluate the severity of your medical condition and its impact on your ability to work.

What if My Claim Is Denied?

You have the right to appeal if your claim is denied. The appeals process includes several steps. First, your claim is reviewed by a different SSA representative during reconsideration. You may also submit additional medical evidence to strengthen your case. If your reconsideration is denied, you may request a hearing before an administrative law judge. During the hearing, you present additional evidence and have witnesses, such as doctors or vocational experts, testify on your behalf. Many claims that are denied initially are approved at this stage. You can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council if denied at the hearing. The council will evaluate whether the judge’s decision was correct and may either approve your claim, send it back for another hearing, or deny your appeal. If your claim is still denied, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court. This is the last stage of the appeals process and requires legal representation to argue your case effectively. Older applicants often have a better chance of winning on appeal, especially if they present strong medical and vocational evidence.

Denied Social Security Disability Benefits? Roeschke Law, LLC Can Help!

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially if your claim has been denied. Let the experienced team at Roeschke Law, LLC guide you through the process and fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact us today at 505-407-0072 or 800.975.1866 for a free in-depth case evaluation. Se habla español.