Demystifying Exertional and Skill Levels in Social Security Disability Evaluation

Introduction:

When it comes to assessing disability claims, the Social Security Administration (SSA) follows specific guidelines to determine an individual’s eligibility for benefits. Two key factors that play a significant role in this evaluation are exertional levels and skill levels. Understanding how these levels are defined and how they affect disability claims is crucial for applicants. In this blog post, we will explore the definitions and implications of exertional and skill levels in the context of Social Security Disability evaluations.

1. Exertional Levels:

Exertional levels refer to the physical capabilities and demands associated with work activities. The SSA classifies exertional levels into five categories:

• Sedentary Work: Involves primarily sitting, with occasional standing or walking. The individual may be required to lift/carry up to 10 pounds.

• Light Work: Requires standing or walking for prolonged periods and involves lifting/carrying weights of up to 20 pounds.

• Medium Work: Involves frequent standing, walking, and lifting/carrying weights up to 50 pounds.

• Heavy Work: Demands significant physical effort, such as frequent lifting/carrying of up to 100 pounds.

• Very Heavy Work: Requires exertion beyond heavy work, with lifting/carrying weights exceeding 100 pounds.

The assigned exertional level considers an individual’s ability to perform physical tasks and determines their capacity to engage in different types of work activities.

2. Skill Levels:

Skill levels focus on the mental or cognitive requirements necessary for performing work-related tasks. The SSA categorizes skill levels into three main categories:

• Unskilled Work: Involves simple, routine tasks that can be learned in a short period without extensive training. Unskilled work generally requires minimal judgment or decision-making.

• Semi-Skilled Work: Requires some training or experience to perform specific job duties. These tasks may involve more complex actions but do not typically require highly specialized or technical skills.

• Skilled Work: Demands specialized knowledge, training, or education. Skilled work usually requires expertise, specific qualifications, or professional certifications in a particular field.

The assigned skill level assesses an individual’s capacity to adapt to different types of work, taking into account their acquired skills and experience.

3. Evaluation of Disability Claims:

Exertional and skill levels are crucial components in evaluating disability claims. They are considered in conjunction with an individual’s medical condition, age, education, and work history. The SSA determines whether an applicant’s limitations, as determined by their exertional and skill levels, prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA refers to work that involves significant physical or mental exertion and provides income above a certain threshold.

The evaluation process examines whether the individual’s impairments, combined with their exertional and skill levels, prohibit them from performing their previous work or any other work available in the national economy. If their limitations significantly restrict their ability to engage in substantial gainful activity, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.

Conclusion:

Exertional and skill levels are essential considerations in the evaluation of Social Security Disability claims. Exertional levels assess the physical capabilities and demands associated with work, while skill levels evaluate the mental or cognitive requirements necessary for different types of tasks. Understanding how these levels are defined and their impact on disability claims can help applicants present a comprehensive case that highlights the limitations caused by their impairments. By providing accurate and detailed information regarding exertional and skill levels, individuals can effectively demonstrate their inability to perform substantial gainful activity due to their conditions, thus increasing their chances of receiving the necessary support and assistance through Social Security Disability benefits.

Navigating the complexities of the Social Security Disability system can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. Seeking professional representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your disability claim. A knowledgeable and experienced Social Security Disability representative can guide you through the application process, gather relevant evidence, and effectively present your case to the Social Security Administration. Don't hesitate to reach out and explore your options for representation. Take a proactive step towards securing the benefits you deserve by seeking the support and expertise of a qualified Social Security Disability representative today. Your future financial security and well-being may depend on it. For a free consultation, please call us at (407) 738-3718.