Light Work

Are you considering applying for disability benefits through Social Security? Your ability to work will be a significant factor in determining your acceptance.

What is referred to as “Light Work?”

When the Social Security Administration (SSA) examines your claim for medical-vocational benefits, it will assess the type of job you may perform: sedentary, light, medium, heavy, or very heavy. The more restricted your mobility is, the less work you will be able to complete. Light work entails performing a few simple activities with little physical labor.

The Primary Distinction Between Light and Sedentary Work

Sedentary work provides the bare minimum evaluation. There are two significant distinctions between candidates who receive a “light work” judgement and those who receive a sedentary ruling. Individuals capable of light labor can typically be on their feet for the majority of the day, but those capable of sedentary work must be confined to a chair or perhaps bed rest. Additionally, individuals capable of “light work” are capable of carrying up to ten pounds of things.

Individuals suitable for light work are typically unable to move continuously during the day and are also unable to grasp, hold, and turn objects. Only fine motor abilities via the fingers are required for light work.

Your Job and Light Work

Your career will have a significant impact on whether or not you qualify for Social Security. For example, a construction worker would most likely be unable to execute his or her obligations when performing only light work, whereas a secretary would most likely have no difficulty completing chores while performing only light work.

If you are considering applying for Social Security disability benefits, you should consult an advocate or an attorney. A lawyer can represent you in court and demonstrate that you are unable to hold a job due to your light work grade.