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Medical Condition Vs. Disability

If you have a medical condition you may be eligible for Social Security benefits. For your medical condition to be considered a disability, the condition must prevent you from working for at least one year or be expected to result in death.

  1. Social Security Disability Eligibility

    • Social Security disability provides benefits to those who have previously paid Social Security tax. Additionally, adults with disabilities that occurred before the age of 22 can be eligible for Social Security disability.

    Social Security Supplemental Income Eligibility

    • Social Security supplemental income (SSI) gives cash to help a person afford life's necessities, like food and shelter. If you have a limited income and a disability that severely limits your functioning you may be eligible for Social Security supplemental income.

    Contributing Factors

    • In addition to the severity of your medical condition, age, education, and past work experience play a role in determining if you qualify to receive disability benefits.

    Job Skills

    • If your skills can be used in a different occupation, you will not be considered disabled.

    Alcohol & Drugs

    • The U.S. government does not consider your medical condition a disability if the condition results from alcohol or drug abuse.

    Considerations

    • If you qualify for Social Security supplemental income you also will likely qualify for food stamps and Medicaid.

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