The Five-Step Disability Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step sequential process to evaluate disability eligibility. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Are You Engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?

• The SSA checks whether you're currently working and how much you're earning.
• If you're working and earning more than the monthly SGA limit (which changes annually), you won’t be considered disabled.
• If you're not working or earning below the SGA threshold, the SSA moves to Step 2.

Step 2: Is Your Condition “Severe”?

• The SSA evaluates whether your medical condition significantly limits your physical or mental ability to perform basic work activities, like lifting, standing, remembering, or concentrating.
• Your condition must last — or be expected to last — at least 12 months or result in death.

Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet or Equal a Listed Impairment?

• The SSA has a Listing of Impairments that includes medical conditions considered severe enough to automatically qualify you for disability.
• If your condition matches (or is equal in severity to) a listed impairment, you are considered disabled.
• If not, the SSA proceeds to evaluate your ability to work.

Step 4: Can You Perform Past Relevant Work?

• The SSA reviews your previous jobs and whether your current condition allows you to return to that type of work.
• If you can still do your past work, you will be denied benefits.
• If you cannot perform your past work, the process moves to Step 5.

Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work?

• The SSA considers your age, education, work history, and transferable skills to determine whether you can adjust to any other kind of work.
• If no other work is reasonably possible for you given your limitations, you may be found disabled.

Key Evidence the SSA Uses to Make Its Decision

To determine your eligibility, the SSA will review:

• Medical records and test results
• Doctor’s opinions about your limitations
• Work history and job descriptions
• Statements from caregivers, employers, or family
• Activities of daily living reports

Your claim’s success depends heavily on the quality and completeness of your documentation.

What If You’re Denied?

Many claims are denied at first, but you have the right to appeal. You can:

• Request reconsideration
• Attend a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge
• Submit additional evidence or corrections



Appeals give you another chance to present your case in greater detail.