Navigating the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process for SSD Claims: Insights from Wood & Carlton, P.C.

February 20, 2025

Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) claims process involves understanding the intricate Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced attorneys are well-versed in guiding clients through each step of this process to maximize their chances of approval. In this blog post, we'll provide an overview of the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process and offer valuable insights to help you navigate your SSD claim effectively.


Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

The first step in the sequential evaluation process involves determining whether you are currently engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). If your earnings exceed a certain threshold set by the SSA, you may be considered capable of working and ineligible for SSD benefits.


Step 2: Severity of Impairment

If you are not engaged in SGA, the SSA will evaluate the severity of your impairment(s) to determine if they significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities. Your impairment(s) must meet the criteria outlined in the SSA's Listing of Impairments or be deemed medically equivalent to a listed impairment to proceed to the next step.


Step 3: Listing of Impairments

At this stage, the SSA compares your impairment(s) to its Listing of Impairments, which outlines specific medical conditions that automatically qualify individuals for SSD benefits if their impairment(s) meet or equal the severity criteria specified in the listings. If your impairment(s) meet or equal a listed impairment, you will be found disabled without further evaluation.


Step 4: Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)

If your impairment(s) do not meet or equal a listed impairment, the SSA will assess your residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine your ability to perform work-related activities despite your limitations. Your RFC is an assessment of your physical and mental abilities and limitations and will inform the SSA's decision regarding your ability to perform past relevant work.


Step 5: Past Relevant Work and Other Work

In the final step, the SSA evaluates whether you can perform your past relevant work based on your RFC and vocational factors such as age, education, and work experience. If you cannot perform past relevant work, the SSA considers whether you can adjust to other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy, considering your RFC, age, education, and work experience.


Expert Guidance from Wood & Carlton, P.C.

Navigating the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process for SSD claims can be complex and overwhelming. By seeking expert guidance from the experienced SSD attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., you can ensure that your claim is meticulously prepared and effectively presented to the SSA. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to gather supporting evidence, prepare you for hearings, and advocate for your rights throughout the claims process.


Conclusion

Understanding the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process is crucial for navigating the SSD claims process successfully. With the assistance of Wood & Carlton, P.C., you can confidently navigate each step of the process and improve your chances of securing the SSD benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your SSD claim and learn more about how we can assist you.

Exploring the Appeals Council and Federal Court Levels for SSD Appeals

July 17, 2025
Introduction: Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) appeals process can be complex and daunting, especially for individuals who have had their initial SSD claims denied. Fortunately, claimants have the opportunity to seek further review of their cases at the Appeals Council and, if necessary, in federal court. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced SSD attorneys are well-versed in the appeals process and can provide valuable guidance to claimants at every stage. In this blog post, we'll explore the Appeals Council and Federal Court levels for SSD appeals and offer insights to help claimants understand their options. The Appeals Council: The Appeals Council is the next level of review after an initial denial of SSD benefits. Claimants who receive an unfavorable decision from an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can request a review by the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council examines the ALJ's decision for errors of law or procedure and may overturn, modify, or remand the decision for further review. Requesting Review by the Appeals Council: To request a review by the Appeals Council, claimants must submit a written appeal within 60 days of receiving the ALJ's decision. The appeal should include specific reasons why the claimant believes the decision is incorrect and may include additional evidence or legal arguments to support their case. The Appeals Council's Decision: Upon reviewing the case, the Appeals Council may take several actions, including affirming the ALJ's decision, issuing a new decision, or remanding the case for further review. If the Appeals Council denies the claimant's request for review, the ALJ's decision becomes final.  Federal Court Review: If a claimant disagrees with the Appeals Council's decision or if the Appeals Council denies their request for review, they may file a lawsuit in federal court seeking judicial review of their SSD claim. Federal court review provides claimants with the opportunity to present their case before a federal judge, who will evaluate whether the SSA's decision was supported by substantial evidence and free from legal errors. Legal Representation: Navigating the Appeals Council and federal court levels of SSD appeals requires experienced legal representation. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our SSD attorneys have a deep understanding of the appeals process and can provide skilled advocacy to help claimants present their cases effectively at each stage of review. Conclusion: The Appeals Council and federal court levels offer claimants additional opportunities to appeal unfavorable decisions in SSD cases. With the guidance of skilled attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., claimants can navigate the appeals process with confidence and increase their chances of obtaining the SSD benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your SSD appeal and learn more about how we can assist you.

What Injured Workers Should Know About Light Duty Work Assignments in Mississippi

July 3, 2025
Introduction: When workers suffer injuries on the job in Mississippi, returning to work can be a complex process, particularly when their injuries prevent them from resuming their regular job duties. In such cases, employers may offer light duty work assignments as a transitional measure to accommodate injured workers while they recover. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced workers' compensation attorneys are well-versed in light duty work assignments and can provide valuable guidance to injured workers navigating this aspect of the workers' comp process. In this blog post, we'll discuss what injured workers should know about light duty work assignments in Mississippi. Definition of Light Duty Work: Light duty work refers to modified job duties or tasks that are less physically demanding than the injured worker's regular job duties. These assignments are typically temporary and are designed to accommodate the worker's restrictions or limitations resulting from their injury, allowing them to remain productive and employed while they recover. Employer's Obligations: Under Mississippi workers' compensation laws, employers have an obligation to offer suitable light duty work assignments to injured workers who are capable of performing them. Failure to provide light duty work when available may result in penalties for the employer and could impact the worker's entitlement to workers' compensation benefits. Eligibility Criteria: Whether an injured worker is eligible for light duty work assignments depends on various factors, including the nature and extent of their injuries, medical restrictions or limitations imposed by their healthcare provider, and the availability of suitable light duty positions within the employer's organization. Wage Considerations: Injured workers who accept light duty work assignments may receive reduced wages compared to their pre-injury earnings. However, they may still be entitled to partial wage replacement benefits under workers' compensation laws to offset the difference between their pre-injury and post-injury earnings.  Rights of Injured Workers: Injured workers should be aware of their rights when offered light duty work assignments. They have the right to seek clarification from their healthcare provider regarding their medical restrictions and limitations and to request accommodations that align with their abilities and medical needs. Legal Advocacy from Wood & Carlton, P.C.: Navigating light duty work assignments and workers' compensation benefits can be complex, especially for injured workers dealing with the aftermath of a workplace injury. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our dedicated workers' comp attorneys can provide comprehensive legal assistance and advocacy to ensure that injured workers' rights are protected and that they receive the benefits they deserve. Conclusion: Understanding light duty work assignments is essential for injured workers in Mississippi who are navigating the workers' compensation process. With the guidance of experienced attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., injured workers can navigate light duty work assignments with confidence and advocate for their rights throughout the workers' comp process. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your workers' comp claim and learn more about how we can help you.