Social Security Disability for age 50 to 55 individuals are available with fewer restrictions than for younger applicants. If you are 50+, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may consider parts of your application differently.
For example, when considering age, the SSA states that an applicant is “approaching advanced age,” specifically between 50 and 55 years of age, if they have:
- Severe impairment
- Limited work experience
If your limited work experience and impairment affect your ability to adjust to work, your application may be accepted. Special rules are in place because you may be “less trainable” to new types of work even if you’re in good health.
Persons under 50 must show that they cannot perform any type of work, so the rules are more in your favor if you’re between the ages of 50 and 55. You will not be required to show that you can’t work in any field and, instead, must show that you cannot work in the field that you have been in previously.
For example, if you were a janitor for the past 15 years prior to your disability and can no longer work as a janitor, you will not be required to show that you cannot work as a greeter or a desk job.
If you or someone you love are over 50 and are disabled, we can help you through all stages of the application process.
Information on this page:
Residual Function Capacity and Social Security Disability Over 50
Residual Function Capacity (RFC) is used to determine the maximum level of work you can be expected to do based on your disability. RFC questionnaires are completed by a physician, along with other factors to determine eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD), including:
- Age
- Work experience
- Education
RFC considers both your mental and physical ability to work. For example, you may be able to return to light work based on your RFC maximum levels.
If it’s found that you can still complete past relevant work, your claim will be denied. As your lawyer, we’ll ensure that your RFC is accurate and you have the best chance of being approved.
What Social Security Disability Benefits Can An Over-50 Adult Get?
If you’re applying for Social Security Disability for age 50 – 55, your benefits will include:
- Monthly monetary benefits, which are based on your lifetime average earnings. You can use one of the SSA’s calculators to determine your benefit amount. The average estimated benefits payable in January 2025 for all disabled workers is $1,580, but this figure will vary based on multiple factors.
- Medicare coverage is also available after receiving benefits for two years, including Medicare Part A and B benefits. Other parts of Medicare may also be available.
Depending on the state you reside in and your income and resource level, your state may help pay for your Medicare premiums.
I Was Denied SSDI. Now what?
Although approval rates can be higher for Social Security Disability for age 50 and above, there is still a risk of your application being denied.
An estimated 60% or more of initial SSD applications are denied. Although claims can be denied for a variety of reasons, technical denials are the most common.
These denials are based on a non-medical requirement for benefits. You may not have had enough work credits, or you may have earned more than the substantial gainful activity maximum.
If you are unable to return to work, having your SSDI application denied can be disheartening. Fortunately, you have the right to appeal the SSA’s decision.
The Appeals Processes
The SSA provides applicants with four opportunities to appeal a decision.
1. Request for Reconsideration
The first step is to request a reconsideration. At this stage, your case will be reviewed again, along with any new medical evidence or statements you provide. You must file a reconsideration request within 60 days of the initial denial.
2. Hearing with a Judge
If your claim is not approved during the reconsideration stage, you can request an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing.
At the ALJ hearing, you will have another opportunity to present more evidence, including medical documentation and witness statements. The judge will also consider any other previous evidence you submitted and will likely ask questions about your work and health history.
Having a disability lawyer at your hearing can make all the difference in the outcome of your application at this stage.
A lawyer can bring in medical and vocational experts to testify at the hearing, and cross-examine any expert witnesses who may appear. They can help you prepare for the hearing, know what to expect and gather evidence to support your case.
3. Review of Hearing Decision
If your case is still not approved at the second level of appeals, you can appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council.
The Council’s job is to review any errors related to the law, facts or procedures. You can also provide additional evidence to support your claim and will have 60 days to file a request for review.
The Appeals Council has the right to affirm, reject or remand the ALJ’s decision. If the decision is upheld, you have one more opportunity to appeal.
4. File Federal District Court Action
Should your case be denied by the Appeals Council, you can file your case with your state’s federal district court.
Each level of appeals becomes increasingly more complex, and the stakes become higher. A disability lawyer can make the process less stressful and ensure you’re making the best possible argument for your case.
Why Hire A Social Security Disability Lawyer If You’re Over 50?
A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you:
- Navigate your claim
- Review your application
- Appeal a denial
Legal guidance during the application process may help improve your odds of approval through strategic recommendations on the medical evidence you need to satisfy the SSA’s eligibility requirements.
Why Work With Attorney Brian Carmichael?
The Carmichael Law Group proudly serves clients nationwide, offering the robust, dedicated legal guidance necessary to receive the benefits you deserve. With 400+ positive Google reviews, you can be confident that we’ll do everything in our power to help you with your application.
If you or your loved one is seeking Social Security Disability for age 50 to 55, we’re here to help.
Contact or call the Carmichael Law Group to schedule your free initial consultation.
