What is the first step in the sequential evaluation process for disabilities?

In the sequential evaluation process for disabilities, the first step involves determining whether the individual is engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). This is crucial because if a person is working at a level considered SGA, they generally do not qualify for Social Security disability benefits, regardless of their medical condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines SGA based on the amount of money an individual can earn while still being considered disabled.

If the individual is performing SGA, it indicates they are able to sustain a level of work that may disqualify them from receiving benefits. Therefore, this step addresses the threshold condition that must be met before further evaluation of the disability can occur. Only if the person is not engaging in SGA would the evaluation process proceed to examining the nature and severity of their impairment. This process ensures a clear and systematic approach to determining eligibility for disability benefits.

Identifying the impairment, assessing medical history, and evaluating work history are all important components of the disability evaluation process, but they follow the initial determination of SGA.