The SSA’s Basic Definition of Disability

December 12, 2010

While there are many different types of disabilities that may qualify you for Social Security disability benefits, every individual who applies must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability.

To help you understand these basic requirements, we’ll break down each requirement individually.

The first requirement is that you have a disabling condition. This can be a physical condition, a mental health condition, or a combination of the 2. Since Social Security disability benefits are not paid to those with short-term or partial disabilities, you’ll have to prove that your condition qualifies you as being totally disabled.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a listing of impairments that it uses to help determine if a particular condition can be considered disabling. If your condition is not included in the SSA’s listing of impairments, you’ll need to prove that the condition you do suffer from is equally severe to those conditions that are listed.

The second requirement is that you’ll need to prove your condition is preventing you from working or if you are working, that you cannot work enough to generate income to exceed the SSA’s standard for substantial gainful employment (SGA). This means that if you are currently bringing in income that exceeds $1,000 per month (for a non-blind applicant in 2010), you will not qualify for disability benefits.

The third basic requirement to reach the SSA’s definition of disabled is that the condition is expected to last for a minimum of 1 year or will result in death. This goes along with the first requirement which bars those with short-term conditions from being eligible for these types of benefits. The SSA works under the belief that short-term or mildly disabling conditions can be handled through other resources such as savings, insurance, Workers’ Compensation and so on.

If you are considering filing for Social Security disability benefits, you can get a better understanding of your eligibility by speaking with an Indianapolis disability attorney.

You can learn more about how the SSA defines disability by visiting our article library.

A Helping Hand from a Social Security Disability Lawyer

When you have complications with your Social Security disability benefits claim, you need the help of an attorney in Indiana. An Indianapolis firm that’s experienced is crucial to getting the assistance you need. In order to get back on track with your Social Security benefits claim, download a copy of our complimentary book, 8 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing for Social Security Disability Benefits, then contact a Social Security attorney at Hensley Legal Group for a no-cost consultation.