The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

What is considered a total disability?

Total permanent disability (TPD) is a condition in which an individual is no longer able to work due to injuries. Total permanent disability, also called permanent total disability, applies to cases in which the individual may never be able to work again.

What is permanent Social Security disability?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a social insurance program under which workers earn coverage for benefits, by working and paying Social Security taxes on their earnings. For those who can no longer work due to a disability, our disability program is there to replace some of their lost income.

What is considered a total and permanent disability?

Total Permanent Disability (TPD) is a phrase used in the insurance industry and in law. Generally speaking, it means that because of a sickness or injury, a person is unable to work in their own or any occupation for which they are suited by training, education, or experience.

Do you have to be totally disabled to receive Social Security disability?

Yes, both SSD and SSI try to determine if a claimant is totally disabled. In other words, the SSD and SSI disability programs operate under the premise that a person will not be considered disabled and eligible to receive disability benefits unless they are totally disabled, as far as SSA standards are concerned.

Is the definition of disability different for Social Security?

The definition of disability under Social Security is also different than it is for other programs. We do not pay benefits for partial or short-term disability. Social Security has a strict definition of disability.

Are there percentages of disability in Social Security?

The highest benefit rates are reserved for permanent and total disability. In contrast, in the Social Security Disability system, there aren’t gradients, or percentages, of disability. You are either able to do “substantial” work or you’re not.

When do you get paid for Social Security disability?

No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if all of the following are true: You cannot do work that you did before because of your medical condition. You cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition.