What overall process helps to assess disability claims effectively?

The five-step sequential evaluation process is a structured method used to assess disability claims effectively. This approach is specifically designed to determine if an individual meets the criteria set forth for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) eligibility.

The process consists of five distinct steps:

1. Engagement in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): The first step assesses whether the individual is currently engaged in work that qualifies as substantial gainful activity. If they are working above a certain income threshold, they typically do not qualify for disability benefits.

2. Severity of Impairment: The second step evaluates whether the claimant has a medically determinable impairment that significantly limits their ability to perform basic work activities. This often involves reviewing medical records and other documentation.

3. Listed Impairments: At this stage, the assessment checks if the impairment meets the Social Security Administration's specific criteria for listed impairments, which are disabilities that automatically qualify for benefits.

4. Past Relevant Work: If the impairment does not meet the listed criteria, the evaluation moves on to whether the individual can still perform any of their past relevant work despite their limitations.

5. Other Work: Finally, if the claimant cannot perform past work, the assessment considers whether