The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. A person is considered disabled under the Social Security Act if they can’t work due to a severe medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least one year or result in death. The person’s medical condition(s) must prevent them from doing work that they did in the past, and it must prevent them from adjusting to other work.
Disability affects the entire family, not just the disabled individual. A lack of income due to an injury or disability causes an immediate financial hardship which leads to a depletion of savings and assets, putting an emotional strain unto a family on top of dealing with the medical issues that accompany an injury or disability. Social Security disability programs are in place to help you and your family in a time of great need. This program has been paid into by you in the form of your payroll withholding over the years.
