The Social Security Administration strictly defines one word in particular—disability.
To be considered disabled and qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits, also known as SSDI, federal law requires that one’s medical condition be so severe it’s expected to last one full year or more, or result in death.
The medical condition must prevent a worker from not only doing the work that he or she once did, but also hinder him or her from adjusting to other forms of work. The definition one must fit to qualify for SSDI is strictly a result of one’s inability to do any form of work.
Beyond meeting the definition of disability, the Administration and the Disability Determination Services must also establish whether or not the condition is severe enough. Generally speaking, to be considered severe, the disability must significantly limit a worker’s ability to perform basic activities on the job such as standing, lifting, walking, sitting, or remembering. This must go on for at least 12 months.
The condition must also be listed on the Social Security Administration’s list, which is a comprehensive listing of medical conditions and circumstances that automatically meet the definition of disabled.