Disability Determination Services, commonly called DDS, are state agencies that are funded by the US federal government.
For example, there are cases of those filing for disability and falsely claiming to be unable to engage in various forms of physical activity.
The examiner and representatives may also call or otherwise obtain statements from those who are known to the applicant like relatives, friends, acquaintances, neighbors, co-workers, and teachers.
The legal definition of a disability that qualifies an applicant for benefits is "inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
"[2] For adult applicants, Social Security Administration regulations specify a five-step process for making the decision.
[5] Factors that may be considered in determining the "residual functional capacity"[6] may include the following: Contrary to what many think, simply "being disabled" by any definition does not alone qualify one to automatically be approved.
In determining a physical disability, common factors are the ability to sit, stand, lift, bend, and stoop.
Mental disabilities are determined based on the ability to communicate with others, understand oral and/or written instructions from others, and get along with others.
Likewise, a person with limited mental capacity who has the ability to perform physical labor may not qualify as "disabled."