Because temporary compensation programs exist for those in need during short-term disability periods, the Social Security Administration does not pay temporary disability benefits.
With options available that will pay wage replacement benefits, worker’s compensations, medical treatment, insurance policies and more, workers or their dependents do have options of support during these times of disablement.
Social Security assumes that this is available and reserves any benefits paid through Social Security only for those who meet a strict definition of disability.
Social Security’s definition of disability is based entirely on a person’s inability to work, so it’s extremely strict. A person only meets it if
- He or she cannot do the work that was once done
- Social Security decides that the worker cannot adjust to other forms of work because of the medical condition, and
- The disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
The severity of a condition also plays a large role in determining whether a worker will receive Disability Benefits from Social Security or other short-term options.