The Importance of Medical-Vocational Allowances in SSDI Approvals
For individuals in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana, securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be challenging, especially when their condition does not meet the strict criteria of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Listing of Impairments (Blue Book). However, a medical vocational allowance provides an alternative path to approval for those whose disabilities prevent them from working but do not fit precisely within SSA’s listed conditions. The American Disability Action Group is here to help you understand vocational allowances.
What Is a Medical Vocational Allowance?
A medical vocational allowance (MVA) is a determination that a person’s impairment, while not meeting a specific SSA listing, still prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SSA evaluates the applicant’s age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine whether they can perform their past work or adjust to new work.
For example, a person in Mississippi with chronic back pain and limited mobility might not qualify under SSA’s strict musculoskeletal disorder listing. However, if the applicant’s condition prevents them from standing for long periods or lifting objects, they may receive SSDI benefits through an MVA if SSA determines they cannot transition to another type of work.
How SSA Determines Eligibility for a Medical Vocational Allowance
SSA evaluates several factors when considering an MVA for applicants in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana. The key elements include:
- Residual Functional Capacity (RFC): SSA assesses what tasks the applicant can still perform despite their medical condition, such as walking, lifting, or concentrating for extended periods.
- Age: Older applicants (50 and above) are more likely to receive an MVA since SSA considers them less adaptable to new types of work.
- Education Level: Lower levels of education may increase the likelihood of approval if the applicant lacks skills transferable to less physically demanding jobs.
- Work Experience: SSA examines the applicant’s past work and whether they can transition to a different role within their skill set and physical limitations.
Why Medical Vocational Allowances Are Crucial in the South
For SSDI applicants in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana, medical vocational allowances play a critical role in ensuring benefits for those who cannot continue working but do not fit neatly into SSA’s impairment listings. Many individuals in these states have worked in physically demanding industries such as farming, oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing, where injuries and chronic conditions develop over time.
For example, a construction worker in Texas who develops severe arthritis may not qualify under SSA’s arthritis listing but could still be approved through an MVA due to their inability to transition into sedentary work. Similarly, a former factory worker in Louisiana with severe COPD might not meet SSA’s strict pulmonary disorder listing but could qualify if their condition prevents them from performing their previous job or similar work.
How to Strengthen an MVA-Based SSDI Claim
To improve the chances of SSDI approval through an MVA, applicants should:
- Obtain detailed medical records documenting the severity of their condition.
- Work with their doctor to complete an RFC form outlining physical and mental limitations.
- Provide a work history report to show why they cannot return to their past jobs.
- Seek legal assistance from an SSDI attorney to ensure a strong case.
Get Help with Your SSDI Claim
If you are struggling to get SSDI benefits in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, or Louisiana, a medical vocational allowance could be your path to approval. The American Disability Action Group can help you navigate the process and build a compelling case for benefits. Contact our Arkansas and Nationwide Social Security Disability Insurance Attorneys today for a free consultation.
Source:
secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0424510006
