The Social Security Administration’s official definition of disability includes any impairment that (1) is “medically determinable” (that is, it results from a physical or mental abnormality and is diagnosable using acceptable medical techniques); (2) lasts at least 12 months; (3) prevents the impaired person from performing any past job; and (4) prevents the impaired from working at jobs available to him given his age, education, and work history. The definition also excludes anyone whose impairment is sustained by drug addiction or alcoholism.
The Social Security Administration uses this definition to determine eligibility for its two disability benefit programs: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income.
The disability insurance (which is what “Social Security disability benefits” most commonly refer to) pays out a monthly stipend to eligible disabled people based on their average lifetime earnings.
This program is different from the Supplemental Security Income, which is a welfare program operated by the Social Security Administration. This program is only available to people 65 or older who would not get much from the disability insurance. It provides a small amount of income and is meant to supplement Medicaid and other state and county social services.
If you are disabled but you still have problems obtaining Social Security disability benefits, dedicated Ocala Social Security disability attorney CJ Henry may be able to help you with your claim. Simply fill out the form on this page to schedule a free initial evaluation of your claim.
