DISABILITY SURVIVAL GUIDE: NORTH ALABAMA EDITION

We hear people speak of permanent disability, partial disability and short term disability when speaking of Social Security disability benefits. Interestingly enough, the Social Security Administration doesn't use any of those terms.  And they are not found in the Social Security regulations. A disability does not have to be "permanent" to receive SSDI benefit payments.  In fact, Social Security never uses that term.  A medical or mental condition can qualify for SSDI if it lasts for a period of at least 12 consecutive months and makes the claimant unable to perform Substantial Gainful Activity--which in 2026 is defined as earning wages of at least $1,690 per month. Social Security does not offer any benefit for "partial disability."  Again, they don't use that term.  It is not possible to get a partial benefit or a percentage of disability.  With Social Security it is all or none:  a claimant is either disabled or not disabled.  There's no in bet...

  How many times have you heard this question asked:  "Does (condition) qualify for Social Security disability benefits?"   You may fill in the disease or condition.  And, no mat ter what the condition, is, the answer depends on the following? 1.  Have your earned sufficient work credits to be covered for Social Security Disability (SSDI)?  The answer must be yes. 2.  Do you have a medically determinable severe illness or condition (diagnosed by a doctor)?  The answer must be yes. 3.  Has or will the condition cause you to be out of work for at least 12 straight months, OR end in death within 1 year?  The answer must be yes to one question. Almost ANY condition might qualify for SSDI benefits if the 3 conditions above are met.   Reasons Most SSDI Claims Get Denied 1.  The medical condition is not severe enough to prevent the claimant being able to work for a period of at least 12 straight months. 2.  The claimant does...