What does the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) mean by the term, “disabled?
SSA considers a person “disabled” if he or she: (1) lacks the ability to engage in any substantial gainful activity; (2) the incapacity is due to one or more medically determinable physical or mental impairments; and (3) the incapacity has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months or to result in death. (Other guidelines govern blindness and claims of disabled children.) Applicants must supply SSA the evidence that proves that their condition meets these criteria. “Substantial gainful activity” is defined as working on a regular and continuing basis and earning over $830 a month (in 2005). If you are working and earning over $830 a month, SSA may be reluctant to accept your claim because they consider you to be doing substantial gainful activity. However, this should not be a problem if the income is not from current earnings. For example, sick pay, investments, and private insurance are not substantial gainful activity because you are not currentl
SSA considers a person “disabled” if he or she: (1) lacks the ability to engage in any substantial gainful activity; (2) the incapacity is due to one or more medically determinable physical or mental impairments; and (3) the incapacity has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months or to result in death. (Other guidelines govern blindness and claims of disabled children.) Applicants must supply SSA the evidence that proves that their condition meets these criteria. “Substantial gainful activity” is defined as working on a regular and continuing basis and earning over $830 a month (in 2005).
