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WHAT ARE GRID RULES? WHY AGE MATTERS

 When you are trying to get Social Security disability benefits, they consider more than just your physical and mental health.  Social Security also must consider your age, education level, and work history.

The grid rules help decision makers to understand how age and education affects a claimant's ability to work.

The grid rules are especially important for claimants who are age 50 or over.  They are even more important for claimants age 55 or over.

Social Security rules recognize that as we age we become less adaptable to new types of work.  In general, if a claimant is age 55 or over--called "advanced age"-- he or she may be declared disabled under a grid rule if they are no longer able to perform past relevant work.  That same claimant might not be disabled at a younger age.  A claimant with the same medical history at age 40 might not be disabled under the rules.  This is because Social Security will likely find that, even though he cannot perform any past relevant work, he/she can find other work.

Thus, younger claimants (under 50) are often expected to find new jobs in a different type of work, even if they can no longer perform any of their past work.  A claimant who is under age 50 cannot qualify for disability by using a grid rule. (To clarify, younger claimants CAN be disabled, just not under the grid rules).

Social Security also classifies work into exertion levels ranging from "Sedentary" to "Very Heavy."  The exertion level of work is also considered.  

In evaluating a new Social Security disability claim for an individual age 50 or over, one of the first things I look at is the grid rule.  If the claimant's age, education, residual functional capacity and past relevant work line up properly, I may be able to argue an award of benefits under the grid rules.

If you don't understand the confusing maize of rules and regulations that Social Security uses, consider contacting a lawyer or advocate who does.  It may increase your chances of getting benefits.  A study by the federal Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that claimants who use a lawyer are twice as likely to be approved.  

The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville will match you will a qualified advocate to evaluate your disability case and help guide you through the process of Social Security disability.  There is never a fee unless you WIN your benefits and receive PAST DUE MONEY.  Consultations are free and with no obligation.  You will never be pressured to use our firm.  Reach us at (256) 799-0297.

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The Forsythe Firm - Social Security Disability Counselors -- "at Bridge Street" in Huntsville, AL.  (256) 799-0297.


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