Second Step in Determining SSI Eligibility

Do you have a "severe" impairment?

At step two of the sequential evaluation, the Social Security Administration must determine if you have a "severe" impairment. An impairment is considered severe if it could interfere with or have a serious impact on your ability to do basic work activities. This is a very low standard, and most people who apply for disability benefits are found to have a severe impairment. However, a finding that you have a severe impairment does not mean that you will be found to be disabled. It simply means that the sequential evaluation will proceed to step three.

Although very few cases are denied at step two, because of the low standard required to show a "severe" impairment, cases are sometimes denied at this step. These are generally cases where the claimant alleges severe pain or mental problems, but the claimant has not received any treatment for the problems and there is no objective evidence to support the claimant's alleged problems. You must understand that your doctors' reports must support your complaints of pain and mental problems, or the Social Security Administration simply will not believe your allegations as to severe problems.

If you need clarification regarding severe impairments or other aspects of Tulsa Oklahoma SSI, a Tulsa social security disability lawyer at our law firm is here to assist you.