Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What is the final question the SSA asks to determine if someone is disabled?

1. Are you unable to find work?

2. Are you receiving medical treatment?

3. Can you do any other type of work?

4. Have you ever held a job?

The correct answer is: Can you do any other type of work?

In the process of evaluating whether an individual is considered disabled under Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines, the final question typically relates to the individual's ability to perform other types of work. This question assesses the claimant’s capacity for any substantial gainful activity, not just the specific work they have previously done. The SSA's determination process involves a sequential evaluation that first considers whether the individual has a severe impairment that prevents them from engaging in their past relevant work. However, even if an individual cannot perform their past job, they may still be considered capable of doing other types of work that are available in the national economy. This final step is crucial because it acknowledges that disabilities can vary widely, and an individual's functional limitations may not preclude them from all forms of employment. Therefore, determining if a person can carry out any other type of work—considering their age, education, work experience, and the severity of their impairments—is essential in the overall disability assessment.