How Age Affects Your Chances Of Getting Disability Benefits

For a lot of things, it is better to be younger.  Younger people are generally more attractive. They also have more energy and tend to be healthier than older people.

However, being older has its advantages, especially when it comes to getting government benefits such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). When you submit your application for benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at several factors to determine your eligibility. One of those factors is age.

When SSA receives your application, your date of birth is noted. Depending on which age bracket you belong to, you will be labeled as one of the following:

• Young (18 to 44)
• Younger (45 to 49)
• Approaching advanced age (50 to 54)
• Advanced age (55 and over)
• Approaching retirement age (60 to 65)

So why does age matter? While medical evidence is always critical, SSA rules recognize that it becomes harder to adjust to new work as people get older. As a result, older applicants often have an advantage under Social Security’s vocational guidelines, sometimes called the “grid rules.”

SSA does not evaluate disability based on medical issues alone. Instead, it considers whether you can perform your past relevant work or any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy.

As age increases, SSA is more willing to conclude that a person cannot realistically adjust to other work, especially if they have physical limitations, limited education, or a work history involving manual labor.

For claimants under age 50, SSA generally expects the ability to adapt to other types of work, even with medical limitations. Claims in this age group are often denied unless the medical condition is severe and well-documented.

Applicants between ages 50 and 54 fall into the category of “closely approaching advanced age.” At this stage, SSA begins to consider whether physical or mental limitations prevent a transition to less demanding work, especially if the claimant has a history of physically demanding jobs.

Those ages 55 to 59 are considered of “advanced age.” SSA is much less likely to assume these individuals can retrain or switch careers. If medical evidence shows they can no longer perform their past work, they are more likely to qualify for benefits.

For claimants 60 and older, SSA recognizes very limited adaptability. Even moderate restrictions can support approval, particularly when combined with limited education or specialized work experience.

Ultimately, age does not guarantee approval, but it can significantly strengthen a case when combined with strong medical records and consistent work history.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

SSDI approval is not easy. When it comes to SSDI, age is more than just a number. Many claims are denied the first time around, but being older can be a benefit in this regard because earning income does become more difficult with age.

A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can help you understand the claims process and improve your chances of approval. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (914) 228-1770.

Source:

disabilityadvice.org/ssdi/approval-process/approval-by-age/