personal injury lawyers in chicago

How Social Security Handles Mental Illness Claims

For those suffering from mental illness, such as depression or anxiety conditions, finding and maintaining a job can be extremely difficult, leaving those already in a vulnerable position even more exposed to economic hardship and adversity. Those living with mental illness who find it hard to work often apply for Social Security benefits in an effort to support themselves.

However, it can be much harder for mental illness applicants to receive the benefits they need due to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) often difficult and confusing rule. Keep reading to learn how Social Security handles mental illness claims and how you can get help from a social security disability lawyer.

Disability Benefits Types and Requirements

When seeking Social Security benefits due to a mental illness, you will be required to show that your condition prevented you from working in a considerable way. Social Security uses a metric known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine how severely your mental illness impacted your work and earning ability. As of 2016, SGA was determined as earning $1,130 a month. If your mental illness caused you to earn under the SGA level, or if you haven’t been able to work at all, then you may be eligible to receive benefits.

It is also important to note that there are two types of Social Security benefits you can pursue: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Those seeking SSI usually have impairments so severe that they have been unable to acquire any work history, while SSDI recipients usually have some work history and have paid Social Security taxes before.

Determining Mental Illness

If you meet the SGA requirement, then you are well on your way to receiving benefits. It is at this point that the SSA will examine your mental illness to determine your eligibility. The SSA maintains a list of common mental illnesses that it will reference while examining your case. Some of the ailments that may qualify you for benefits include:

  • Progressive conditions
  • Personality disorders
  • Certain substance abuse disorders
  • Mental disabilities, such as autism

It’s not enough that you have been diagnosed with one of these conditions; they must also substantially interfere with your life, particularly your ability to work. Because the requirements for each condition are complicated, it’s important to consult with a physician to help determine where the extent of your condition is eligible.

What if You Don’t Qualify?

If you have a condition that doesn’t appear on the list, it is still possible to receive benefits. The SSA will examine your condition and its symptoms to determine your mental residual functional capacity (MRFC). Your MRFC will indicate exactly how capable you are of withstanding the mental and physical rigors of a regular job.

To prove your MRFC level, you will need to provide the SSA with medical records that speak to your condition, as well as opinions from a psychologist or psychiatrist who has examined you. If the SSA determines you don’t have the functionality necessary to work, you will be approved to receive benefits.

Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer to Help

Unfortunately, even if you suffer from a legitimate mental illness that affects your life, it is still possible that the SSA denies your application and blocks your access to the benefits you so desperately need. If your application has been denied, you need to consult a social security disability lawyer from the Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers. By partnering with the Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, you’ll be working with a legal team that has the knowledge and experience necessary to handle your Social Security case. Contact us today!

Read More

Follow Us

#LARRYWINS

workers compensation attorneys in dc

The Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers is one of the most successful law firms serving the greater Chicago and Tampa areas. As the leader in Injury, Disability, Workers’ Comp, and Employment Law, with more than $1 Billion in recoveries, The Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers has been named One of the Most Influential Law Firms in America by Trial Lawyer Magazine.

Practice Areas

FREE CASE CONSULTATION

    Recent Posts

    CLIENT REVIEWS

    Was a great fit for me and would definitely recommend to family and friends!

     – Christine

    It has been a wonderful experience working with Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers. They are highly recommended.

    John

    I feel you guys did a great job in handling my case.

    V. Gentry

    Very professional staff, great experience.

    Lisa

    Why Choose Us

    CONTACT LARRY

    FREE CASE EVALUATION

    YOU WON'T PAY A PENNY UNTIL LARRY WINS

      TAMPA

      1041 U.S. Highway 19
      Holiday, FL 34691
      727-600-6000

      CHICAGO

      121 W Wacker Drive, Suite 2300
      Chicago, IL 60601
      312-600-6000