EXAM FOR SOCIAL SECURITY 101: TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF SOCIAL SECURITY LAW

Answer the following questions about Social Security disability.  Answers are given at the end of the test.

1.  If a condition is not expected to end in death, how long must the condition last before it qualifies for Social Security disability or SSI benefits?

2.  True/False.  A Social Security disability hearing is usually open to spectators and anyone that the claimant wishes to bring with him or her. 

3.  Which of the following is NOT a requirement for work to be considered as "past relevant work" by Social Security?

a)  the work was performed at substantial gainful activity level
b)   the work was performed long enough for the claimant to learn to perform the job
c)  the work was not in a sheltered or subsidized workplace
d)  the work was performed at an exertion level greater than sedentary.

4.  At a hearing, the judge must determine if a claimant can perform any past relevant work.  At which step in the sequential process is this done?

5.  At which step in the sequential determination process must the administrative law judge determine the claimant's residual functional capacity?

6.  How many hypothetical questions may the administrative law judge pose to the vocational witness during a disability hearing?

7.  Assuming an award is made, what single factor has the most influence on the amount of back pay a disability claimant will receive?

8.  If a claimant filed only an application for Supplemental Security income benefits (SSI), when will he be eligible for payment if he is found disabled on the alleged onset date?

9.  If a claimant has filed both SSDI and SSI applications, and is found disabled on the alleged onset date, when will he first become eligible for a payment of benefits?

10.  What is the mandatory waiting period before benefits can be paid under a Title XIV (Supplemental Security Income) claim?

Answers

1.  at least 12 continuous months
2.  False
3.  d
4. 4th
5.  3rd
6.  an unlimited number
7.  the established onset date of disability
8.  on the first day of the month following the date of application
9.  He is entitled to SSI benefits on the first day of the month following the month of his application, assuming he meets the financial qualifications for SSI; he is entitled to SSDI benefits after a waiting period of 5 full calendar months.
10.  None.