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If you are considering filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) or SSI, it helps to understand that Social Security’s definition of disability might not be the same as your definition of disability. In short, you may have a physical or mental condition that is severe, provide medical documentation that proves both the condition and its severity, and still be turned down for benefits. Why? Because federal disability benefits are awarded only to those who can prove that they have an impairment that is both severe and ongoing, and likely to exist for a period of not less than twelve months. This does not mean that you must have been disabled or out of work for a year before you can file for SSD or SSI. In fact, you should file for benefits as soon as your impairment has begun to take a toll on your ability to earn a living. In determining the 12-month requirement, Social Security takes into account the date of onset, or when you first became impaired. So, for example, if your medical records show your condition was severe for four months before you filed, and that it is expected to last at least another eight months, you may qualify for disability. Why does the Social Security Administration (SSA) set the bar at twelve months rather than eight months or eighteen months or even two years? In this case the date is somewhat arbitrary, but it was chosen because SSA has determined that any condition that lingers for 12 months is likely to be permanently, totally disabling. Keep in mind that federal disability benefits are not meant to compensate cases of short-term disability. If your medical records indicate that your condition is likely to improve within the next year with treatment, you probably will not qualify. Federal disability benefits are also not meant to compensate those with a partial disability. This means that you could have a severe disability that will never improve, such as loss of limb, hearing, or even eyesight in one eye, and still be denied disability if you can’t prove that your impairment prevents you from doing your past job or any other work to which you may be suited. Social Security awards SSD and SSI for severe impairments, physical or mental, that prevent individuals from earning a minimum amount each month, called the substantial gainful activity (SGA) amount. This amount is determined annually by Social Security, and if it is determined that you can earn at least this much each month you will be turned down for benefits, regardless of the nature of your impairment or its severity. 
Social Security Disability and SSI Disability Information
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