Social Security Disability Determination Services (DDS)

The DDS is responsible for making the initial determination of whether an individual is eligible for Social Security disability benefits. This determination is based on a review of the individual's medical records, work history, and other relevant information.

To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, an individual must be unable to work due to a disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.

The five-step sequential evaluation process is a series of steps used by the DDS to determine if an individual is eligible for Social Security disability benefits. The steps are as follows:

1. Is the individual currently engaged in substantial gainful activity?
2. Does the individual have a severe impairment?
3. Does the individual's impairment meet or equal a listed impairment?
4. Can the individual perform any of their past relevant work?
5. Can the individual perform any other work?

A listed impairment is an impairment that is considered to be so severe that it automatically qualifies an individual for Social Security disability benefits. There are over 100 listed impairments, which are listed in the Social Security Administration's Listing of Impairments.

Substantial gainful activity (SGA) is the amount of work that an individual can perform without jeopardizing their Social Security disability benefits. For individuals who are blind, the SGA limit is $1,350 per month. For individuals who are not blind, the SGA limit is $1,260 per month.

A medical-vocational allowance (MVA) is a determination that an individual is disabled based on their medical condition and their inability to perform their past relevant work. A vocational expert (VE) is a determination that an individual is disabled based on their inability to perform any work.

The Appeals Council is responsible for reviewing decisions made by the DDS. The Appeals Council can either affirm the DDS's decision, reverse the DDS's decision, or remand the case back to the DDS for further review.

The time limit for filing an appeal with the Appeals Council is 60 days from the date of the DDS's decision.

An administrative law judge (ALJ) is responsible for conducting hearings and making decisions on appeals of DDS decisions. The ALJ will consider the evidence presented by the individual and the DDS and will make a decision based on the evidence.

A favorable decision means that the individual is eligible for Social Security disability benefits, while an unfavorable decision means that the individual is not eligible for Social Security disability benefits.

The average processing time for a Social Security disability benefits application is 6-12 months.

The best way to apply for Social Security disability benefits is online.

The best way to prepare for a Social Security disability benefits hearing is to gather all of your medical records, practice answering questions about your disability, and dress professionally.

The most important thing to remember when applying for Social Security disability benefits is to be honest about your disability, be prepared to provide evidence of your disability, and be patient.

The best way to stay informed about changes to the Social Security disability benefits program is to read the Social Security Administration's website, subscribe to the Social Security Administration's email list, and follow the Social Security Administration on social media.