If you’re applying for Social Security Disability benefits in California, you’ve likely heard of Disability Determination Services (DDS). But what is Disability Determination Services (DDS), and what role does it play in deciding whether you qualify for benefits?
Navigating the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) disability process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure how the SSA DDS evaluates claims. This guide will break down everything you need to know about what constitutes being disabled with the DDS, how DDS makes decisions, and what you can do to strengthen your case.
Applying for disability benefits can be challenging, and working with an experienced law firm like Peña & Bromberg can significantly improve your chances of success. Read on to learn more.
What Is Disability Determination Services (DDS)?
Disability Determination Services (DDS) is a state-run agency that works alongside the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine whether an applicant qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
While the SSA manages disability benefits at the federal level, each state has its own DDS office responsible for evaluating medical evidence and making initial disability decisions. In California, DDS is administered by the California Department of Social Services.
How DDS Works in the Disability Process
When you file a disability claim with the SSA, your case is forwarded to DDS for review. The agency then takes the following steps:
- Review of Medical Evidence – DDS gathers your medical records from doctors, hospitals, and treatment facilities.
- Assessment of Functional Limitations – The agency evaluates whether your condition limits your ability to work.
- Consultative Examinations (CEs) – If your medical records are incomplete, DDS may request additional exams from an SSA-approved doctor.
- Determination of Disability – Based on the evidence, DDS decides whether you meet SSA’s definition of disability.
- Case Return to SSA – If approved, your claim moves to the payment processing stage. If denied, you have the right to appeal.
Many applicants receive denials at this stage because of insufficient medical evidence or failure to meet SSA’s strict criteria. That’s why working with an experienced disability attorney can be crucial in securing benefits.
What Constitutes Being Disabled with the DDS?
To be considered disabled by the SSA DDS, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which requires:
✔ A medically determinable impairment (physical or mental) that is severe.
✔ The condition must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
✔ Inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your impairment.
Medical Listings vs. Functional Limitations
The SSA has a Blue Book Listing of impairments. If your condition matches a listing, you may automatically qualify. However, most applicants do not meet a listed condition and must prove their disability on functional limitations.
This means showing based that your condition:
- Prevents you from working your previous job.
- Makes it impossible to perform any other type of work.
Even if you don’t meet a Blue Book listing, you can still qualify for disability benefits if your condition significantly limits your ability to work.
What Is the DDS Process for Evaluating Disability Claims?
The SSA DDS evaluation process follows a five-step sequential evaluation:
Step 1: Are You Working?
- If you are working and earning more than the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, you are not considered disabled.
Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe?
- The condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities (walking, standing, concentrating, lifting, etc.).
Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet the SSA Blue Book Listing?
- If your impairment meets a listing, you may automatically qualify for benefits.
Step 4: Can You Perform Past Work?
- If DDS determines that you can still perform your previous job, you will not be approved for benefits.
Step 5: Can You Perform Any Other Type of Work?
- If you cannot do any other type of work based on your age, education, and work experience, you may qualify for benefits.
If your claim is denied at any stage, you have the right to appeal the decision and provide additional evidence.
Why Many Disability Claims Get Denied by DDS
Many applicants receive denials from DDS because:
🚫 Lack of medical evidence – Incomplete or missing records can lead to a denial.
🚫 Failure to follow prescribed treatment – If you’re not receiving regular medical care, DDS may assume your condition is not severe.
🚫 Your condition is not expected to last 12 months – Short-term disabilities do not qualify for SSA benefits.
🚫 You can still perform some type of work – If DDS believes you can adjust to another type of job, your claim may be denied.
Because the SSA DDS process is strict, it’s crucial to work with an experienced disability lawyer who understands how to build a strong case.
Why You Should Hire Peña & Bromberg for Your Disability Claim
The Social Security Disability process can be overwhelming, and most applicants face denials at the initial stage. That’s why having a dedicated disability law firm on your side can increase your chances of approval.
At Peña & Bromberg, we specialize in Social Security Disability cases and can help you navigate the DDS evaluation process.
How Peña & Bromberg Can Help You:
✅ Free Initial Consultation – We evaluate your case to determine the best legal approach.
✅ Medical Evidence Gathering – Our team works with doctors to collect strong supporting documentation.
✅ Appeals & Reconsiderations – If your claim is denied, we handle all appeal steps to fight for your benefits.
✅ Experienced Legal Representation – With years of experience in California disability law, we know how to win cases.
With offices in Fresno, Bakersfield, and Stockton, Peña & Bromberg proudly serves California residents seeking Social Security benefits.
Conclusion: Get the Disability Benefits You Deserve
Understanding what Disability Determination Services (DDS) is and how it evaluates claims is essential if you’re applying for Social Security Disability in California.
✔ DDS reviews medical records, assesses functional limitations, and determines if applicants qualify for benefits.
✔ To be considered disabled by DDS, your condition must be severe, long-term, and prevent you from working.
✔ Many claims get denied due to lack of medical evidence or improper documentation.
That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced disability attorney like Peña & Bromberg fighting for your case.
📞 Need help with your disability claim? Contact Peña & Bromberg today for a FREE CONSULTATION
