How many Americans become disabled?   According to U.S. census data, eighteen percent of the American population (at this point in time, that comes to 58 million citizens) has some form of disability with 12% having a severe disability. I've probably seen similar figures before, but, still, the statistics are sobering. And, of course, not surprising. Aside from the fact that many accidents and impairments just happen, humans, like machines, wear out. And as we age, we become more susceptible to all sorts of illnesses and more susceptible to injury (due to bone thinning, slowed reflexes, and the chance factor: the longer you live the more likely it is that "something" will happen to you). Disability, to some extent, and in one form or another, may be something that many of us have to look forward to. Literally. According to an article published on foxnews.com, "One in seven workers will be disabled for more than five years." Adding insult to injury are the financial repercussions of becoming disabled: "46% of all home foreclosures are caused by a disability" (remember: half of all bankruptcies are due to medical reasons). Again, and unfortunately, not surprising. Individuals who file for disability benefits through the social security administration routinely have the specter of possible--and actual--home foreclosure thrust upon them. And even when someone's home is not being taken away from them, the picture doesn't get really get that much better. According to census information, the poverty rate for those with a severe disability is 26 percent. 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: How to file for disability in Maine Social Security Disability and Short Term Disability Benefits School records for a child SSI disability claim Does Social Security approve people for drug or alcohol abuse or use? What a lawyer says at a disability hearing Question about qualifying for SSI Social Security Disability SSI and Chronic Pain Do Lawyers Improve The Chances of Winning Social Security Disability or SSI? Filing for disability with lupus How to file for disability in Michigan Maximum disability attorney fee Filing for disability with repetitive stress Filing for disability and financial help Getting approved after a Social Security Disability Psychological exam How long does it take to receive disability benefits after you are approved?