Intellectual disabilities describe limitations in thinking, problem-solving, and learning abilities. Not everyone knows whether someone with this disability qualifies for Social Security Disability (SSD) Benefits. Since this condition ranges from mild to severe, some people may be eligible but others may not. If you feel certain that your application for SSD Benefits was wrongfully denied, feel free to talk to a Philadelphia disability lawyer who can help you figure out why you were considered unqualified.

Levels of Intellectual Disability

An intellectual disability is a condition that people can be born with or may be acquired from head trauma. The limited intelligence caused by this condition can affect areas in problem-solving, judgment, learning in school or from experience, and planning skills. Adaptive functioning, the ability to develop independence and follow social norms, is also affected, which can make learning in school difficult and may prevent some with severe cases of this condition from holding a job.

Intellectual disabilities can be mild, moderate, severe, or profound. Those with mild intellectual disabilities may not qualify for disability benefits because they have the ability to learn practical skills and can hold normal jobs without help from anyone else. People with moderate intellectual disabilities can also live independently and only require support ever so often.

However, severe and profound intellectual disabilities tend to have more debilitating effects. Severe intellectual disabilities prevent people from understanding speech, which limits communication. They can perform basic self-care but still require outside assistance throughout life. Profound intellectual disabilities require professional assistance and help with self-care for life. These people often struggle with communication and have physical disabilities.

SSD Benefits for Intellectual Disability

Less than 5% of the overall population have intellectual disability, but 14% of people with Supplemental Security Income have an intellectual disability. It is not uncommon for people with this disability to receive disability benefits. Whether people qualify may depend on if they can hold a steady job.

Most people with intellectual disabilities report physical or mental conditions as reasons for not having a job. Others say they were still looking for employment, but have not yet found a job. 48% of those with poor health were unable to find a job they could do. As a result, around 92% of those with this disability are able to receive cash benefits from the Social Security Administration. They tend to use Supplemental Security Income more than other benefits programs.

However, those with intellectual disabilities were also more likely to receive less income from public or private sources.

Philadelphia Long-Term Disability Attorney

If you are concerned about your finances or ability to hold a job, talk to an experienced Philadelphia denied benefits appeal lawyer. They will be able to help you file an application for benefits. If your application was denied, they can help you prepare a strong appeal or figure out what went wrong during the application process. We will work with you to obtain the benefits you need to live without financial struggle. Contact Edelstein & Nelson today at (800) 300-0909 for consultation.