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Questions On Understanding Social Security’s Disability Programs Social Security employees are often asked about our disability programs. Our office is a quick primer on the answers to frequently asked questions, together with a reference source that should be able to answer many Social Security disability questions you may have. Q: How does Social Security de-cide if someone is disabled? A: By law, So-cial Security has a very strict definition of disability. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if, due to a medical or mental condition: • You cannot do work as you did before and we decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your condition(s); and • Your disability is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. Q: Why is Social Security’s definition of disability different from that of other programs? A: Social Security disability laws are different from those of most other programs because, unlike many other programs, Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability. Social Security program rules assume that working families have access to other resources to provide support during periods of short-term disabilities, including work-ers’ compensation, insurance, savings and investments. Q: How long does it take to receive a decision about a disability claim? A: It usually takes between 3 and 5 months to get a decision on an initial application. The time needed for a decision depends on how much time it takes to get your medical records and any other evidence needed to make a decision. The more information you can provide about your medical condition, the better your chance for a quicker decision. Q: What is the difference between the Social Security disability and SSI disability programs? A: The medical criteria for the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability programs are basically the same. But Social Security disability insurance is based on work done in jobs covered by Social Security. The program is fin-anced with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers and self-em-ployed people.
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