When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, a vocational expert plays a vital role in determining your benefit. Employed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the vocational expert will determine the extent of your disability and ascertain both the type of work you have done as well as work you may still be able to perform. When the vocational expert submits his or her report, SSA will approve, deny, or adjust your disability benefit. Enlisting the help of a Social Security Disability or Social Security Supplemental Income attorney can help ensure that your claim is properly processed and reviewed. The Social Security Disability and Supplemental Income attorneys at Silver & Silver are extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of the law regarding disability claims, and have vast experience representing clients in every step of the application process.

The Role of the Vocational Expert in a Disability Benefits Claim

The vocational expert’s assessment of an application for Social Security Disability benefits will determine whether the applicant’s disability prevents an individual from performing certain tasks, or if the disability prohibits the applicant from working in any capacity. To do this, several key factors must be examined.

Assessment of physical and mental health: The vocational expert will review records from health professionals, such as a doctor, nurse, physical therapist, social worker, or case worker. They will assess the current physical ability of the applicant, review their medical records, and evaluate their mental health history with regard to the individual’s limitations in engaging in employment.

Skills Assessment and Employment Opportunities: As part of the comprehensive assessment, the vocational expert will take a full inventory of an applicant’s professional skills and experience. They will then compare these with the level of disability to determine if the individual retains the capacity to work.

Residual Functional Capacity: This is an evaluation form that is often filled out by treating physicians. This information is then included in the overall assessment of an applicant’s ability to work.

An Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney Can Maximize Your Benefits

When filing for Social Security Disability benefits, it is in your best interest to seek professional counsel from an attorney whose practice is focused on this complex field of law. The Philadelphia Social Security Disability attorneys at Silver & Silver in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, will review your documents and application to maximize the chances of your Disability claim being approved. We will walk with you through the evaluation process, and advise you on what to expect at your hearing. Utilizing our experience and knowledge of the law, we have helped countless disabled persons throughout the Philadelphia area and suburbs, such as Delaware County, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Norristown, Media and Ardmore, as well as South Jersey communities such as Cherry Hill, Camden, Burlington, Mt. Laurel, Haddonfield, Moorestown and others. Call us for a free consultation at 1-800-94-SILVER (800-947-4583) or contact us online.