When your claim comes up for hearing, the Social Security Judge will go through a 5 step “sequential evaluation process” to decide whether you meet Social Security’s definition of disability.
Step 1
- Whether you are working and, if so,
- Whether the work the claimant is doing constitutes substantial gainful activity (SGA). Substantial Gainful Activity is generally work that brings in over a certain dollar amount per month. In 2013, that amount is $1,040 for non-blind disabled applicants, and $1,740 for blind applicants.
If you are working, your claim will be denied. If you are not working (SGA), the Judge will go to Step 2.Read More