If you are trying to claim social security disability benefits, you may wonder whether your age will have an impact on the outcome, especially if you are over the age of 50. It’s possible for disabled people of any age to gain benefits because of their disability. While the process can always be challenging, the good news is that people over the age of 50 tend to have a higher chance of being successful in their claim.
It is important that you understand all factors that the Social Security Administration (SSA) takes into account when processing social security disability claims. You should also know that the way your case is assessed is dependent on your age.
Standard considerations made by the SSA
If you are under the age of 60, you will be subject to standard assessment measures. These will include an assessment of your ability to work based on the seriousness of your disability. Alternative career options will be considered, as well as the number of work credits you have. Your age will be taken into account when the evaluation is made, and the SSA is likely to be more lenient toward those who are over the age of 50 because they are less able to adapt to new working environments.
Considerations made by the SSA regarding those over 60
Those who are making a social security disability claim over the age of 60 are at an advantage to other applicants because they are subject to different criteria. The severity of their disability will be assessed, and their work history will be taken into account. However, the claimant’s ability to transfer their skills, as well as their level of education will be key factors in the decision-making process.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t qualify for disability
If you are over the age of 60 and you do not qualify for social security disability benefits, you should not be discouraged. Since you are close to retirement age, there are many other benefits to which you could be entitled.
If you want to know how you could take advantage of disability benefits as a person in their 50s or 60s, you should look further into Missouri law.
