Legal Definitions - onset date

The onset date is the specific day when an individual's medical condition or injury became severe enough to prevent them from performing substantial work. This date is crucial for the Social Security Administration (SSA) because it marks the official beginning of the period of disability, which is used to determine eligibility for disability benefits and calculate when payments can start.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of an onset date:

• Example 1: Sudden Injury
  A truck driver, Maria, was involved in a serious accident on March 15th, 2023, resulting in multiple fractures and a spinal injury that immediately rendered her unable to drive or perform any physical labor. Her doctors confirmed she could not return to work. In this scenario, Maria's onset date would likely be March 15th, 2023, as that is when her disability began and prevented her from working.

• Example 2: Progressive Illness
  John has been diagnosed with a progressive neurological disorder. For several years, he managed to continue working as an accountant, making accommodations for his worsening symptoms. However, by October 1st, 2022, his condition had deteriorated to the point where he could no longer concentrate, use a computer effectively, or manage the demands of his job, even with accommodations. He stopped working entirely on that date. For John, October 1st, 2022, would be considered his onset date, as it marks the point when his illness became disabling enough to prevent him from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

• Example 3: Mental Health Condition
  Sarah, a graphic designer, had been struggling with severe anxiety and depression for several months. While she tried to continue working from home, her symptoms, including panic attacks and an inability to focus, became so debilitating that she was unable to meet deadlines or perform her job duties effectively. After consulting with her psychiatrist, she was advised to stop working to focus on treatment, and her last day of work was February 10th, 2024. In this case, February 10th, 2024, would be established as Sarah's onset date, as it represents the point when her mental health condition prevented her from maintaining employment.