How does Social Security define “disability”?

Social Security defines “disability” as an inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. This definition applies to both adults and children. For adults, a disability means that the individual cannot do the work they did before, or any other work considering their age, education and work experience. The disability must cause significant limitations that would make it difficult for them to do any other type of job. For children, the definition of disability is more complicated. The Social Security Administration requires that the child have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that causes marked and severe functional limitations and is expected to last for at least 12 months. Additionally, the impairment must result in the child being unable to do the activities considered to be normal for children of their age. In North Dakota, the Social Security Administration is responsible for determining disability for those claiming Social Security Disability payments. The Administration evaluates each individual’s medical condition and decides if their impairment meets the criteria defined above. If their impairment is considered severe enough, the person may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.

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How does Social Security define “disability”?

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