The Security Administration uses a five-step sequential evaluation process to determine eligibility for disability benefits. At every step you can be denied if you don't pass that step.
1. Work activity: Determine if the application is earning more than the substantial gainful activity amount. No matter your age if you make too much money which does not have to be enough to cover all your bills , you will be the denied.
2. Medical severity of impairment: Determines the impact of the applicant's Medical condition on their ability to work. If they find that there is still a job you can do you will be denied.
3. Meeting a listng: Determines if the applicant Medical condition(s) meets SSA's listing of impairments.
4. Residual functional capacity (RFC) : Determines the applicant's ability to perform work-related activities and this base on your treating doctor's opinion especially he or she has a history of treating you.
5. Functional capacity evaluation: Determines if the applicant can engage in substantial gainful employment. For example (if you walk your kids to school, and home, if you help them with their homework, cook for them, and wash ther clothes, there is some work you can do. And therefore you will be denied, without and advocate or someone to help you.