The Social Security Administration defines “DISABILITY” as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which:
- has lasted for a continuous period of not less than 12 months;
- is expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months; or
- is expected to result in death.
In the vast majority of disability cases, a claimant is filing for disability because they are unable to work for 12 months or longer due to a physical and/or mental condition. However, not all cases operate under the same standard. Most individuals under the age of 50 must be unable to perform any type of full-time work — even an easy sit-down job.
The standard for individuals age 50 and older varies greatly by individual work history. It is important to consult an experienced Social Security Disability attorney early in a claim to avoid overlooking important details in a claimant’s work history that may impact a claimant’s eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits.