West Virginia residents who become disabled and no longer able to work and earn their livings commonly look to disability as a vital source of income. Americans are fortunate to have the disability option but understanding the process of qualifying for it is important. Disability benefits are granted based upon a clearly defined set of rules. Not everyone who applies for disability can guarantee that benefits will be approved.
In West Virginia, the Division of Rehabilitation Services works in conjunction with the Social Security Administration to determine who will qualify and who will not qualify for disability. Together, these two agencies manage decisions for Social Security Disability as well as Supplemental Security Income.
Social Security indicates that the total inability to work in any job is one measure considered in the process. People are also required to have a medical condition that will last at least one calendar year. The impairment can be mental, physical or both. The agency has a designated list of conditions that automatically qualify people for disability.
If a person does not have a condition that automatically qualifies for disability, a more thorough medical review may be required. This can include detailed health care provider records. Supplemental exams can be required for if initial documentation does not support a disability determination. If a person is not currently working, the agency will also look into whether or not a person can perform some type of work. This can include work they did before becoming disabled and work other than what they did before they become disabled.
