Does Social Security offer Partial Disability Benefits?The social security administration does not offer benefits for partial disability. This means two things. First, social security does not pay benefits for conditions involving the loss of use of an extremity or a sense (hearing, vision, smell, etc) if that condition does not also result in a state of disability that conforms to the social security administration definition of disability. Secondly, and this is somewhat related to the first item, the social security administration does not pay benefits if an individual is found to have a percentage disability rating, such as might be given by the veterans administration. The two programs operated by the social security administration (title II Social Security Disability benefits and title 16 SSI disability benefits) award benefits to individuals who are considered to be fully disabled and whose condition is not expected to improve in the near future. In other words, the condition cannot be partial and it must be longstanding. When does SSA consider a person fully disabled? Basically, this is the case when, as a result of their condition, or combination of conditions (which may be physical or mental, or both), they are unable to work and earn a substantial and gainful income. This means being unable to work at any job they have done in the past as well as at any other type of job. How does social security measure a person's ability or inability to work? The first way is simple. If the individual has not been able to engage in work activity for at least twelve months, they may be found to qualify for disability benefits if it is determined that their physical or mental condition was the cause. And that determination will be based on whatever functional limitations they are found to have as a result of their condition. This determination, of course, is based on a review of the claimant's medical evidence. Regarding the second means, if a person has not been out of work for at least for at least 12 months, they can still apply for disability and even win their benefits. This is because the disability examiner who is deciding their claim will be able to look at the records and discern A) when their condition became disabling and B) whether or not it will last at least a full year if it has not already. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Do I Qualify For Disability in North Carolina? Total Disability - Will social security try to determine if a person is totally disabled? Will You Possibly Get Less Than Total Disability From Social Security? To get Social Security Disability or SSI do you have to have Total Disability? Does Social Security offer Partial Disability Benefits? How severe must your condition be to be awarded Social Security Disability or SSI? Social Security Disability - Permanent Disability To get a Social Security Disability or SSI Award do you have to have a Permanent Disability? SSI, household income, parental income, and living arrangements Was I treated unfairly by the judge at my disability hearing? Getting a Disability Lawyer in Connecticut If you apply for disability in Connecticut |
