Harrisburg Social Security Disability: How Work History and Medical Evidence Affect Claims

If you are applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in Harrisburg, you are probably already aware of how complex and discouraging the process can be. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies most initial claims, not necessarily because the applicant isn’t disabled but because the evidence doesn’t meet the SSA’s strict standards.

Two of the most essential elements of a successful application are your work history and medical documentation. Our Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer explains how these two components factor into getting benefits.

Your Work History Determines Eligibility and Vocational Assessment

Your work history plays a central role in whether you qualify for SSD benefits. The SSA uses a system of work credits based on your annual earnings. In general, you need at least 40 work credits, half of which were earned within the last 10 years, to get Social Security Disability benefits. Younger workers may need fewer credits.

In addition to eligibility, the SSA uses your work history as part of vocational analysis, looking specifically at the following:

• The number of years you worked and when;
• Whether your earnings were reported to the SSA
• The physical and mental demands of your past jobs;
• Transferable skills that may permit you to perform substantial work in other occupations;
• Gaps in your employment history and reasons for periods of unemployment in the past.

Even when disabilities are severe, the SSA may deny your benefits if it believes you can perform other substantial work. Submitting detailed, accurate information about your previous jobs is essential when filing your claim.

Medical Evidence Must Prove the Nature and Severity of Your Disability

The second pillar of a successful SSD claim is strong medical evidence. Without medical records documenting your condition, the SSA cannot approve your claim.

Medical documentation should establish a diagnosis and demonstrate how your condition limits your ability to work. The SSA assesses residual functional capacity (RFC), a measure of what you can still do physically and mentally, to determine whether you qualify for benefits. To meet SSA standards, your medical evidence should include:

• Diagnoses from qualified healthcare providers;
• Objective test results, such as X-rays, MRIs, or lab reports;
• Treatment notes and prescribed medications;
• Documentation of functional limitations;
• Consistent records showing ongoing care and follow-up.

The SSA also gives significant weight to statements from treating physicians regarding how your condition limits your ability to work. Gaps in care, vague records, or failure to follow medical advice can seriously harm your claim.

To Get The Benefits You Are Entitled To, Contact Our Experienced Harrisburg Social Security Disability Lawyer

Social Security Disability claims in Harrisburg are often denied due to a lack of documentation regarding medical conditions and employment history. At Ira H. Weinstock, P.C., we help you gather the evidence you need to get the benefits you are entitled to, whether filing an initial application or appealing a denial. Give us a call or contact our office online today to schedule a consultation with our experienced Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html

secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0424510006#:~:text=Description%20of%20RFC,individual’s%20abilities%20on%20that%20basis.