Social Security provides benefits to people who are unable to work because of certain illnesses, injuries, or conditions. The definition of disability under Social Security is different than other programs. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability.
"Disability" under Social Security is based on your inability to do any substantial work. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:
- You cannot do work that you did before;
- We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
Please refer to current rules on earnings and how we count substantial gainful activity.
For more information, please see our publication on the Disability program.