Employee Life and Disability Insurance

Disability Supplements

Social Security is a type of disability insurance.

Social Security provides retirement benefits as well as disability income. Unfortunately, Social Security's disability qualifications are strict, which makes qualifying difficult.

Social Security's definition of disability is different from that of private insurance companies. Social Security doesn't pay disability benefits for short-term or partial disability, only for total disability. It's an all or nothing proposition.

Under Social Security rules, you're considered disabled if you can't perform the job duties that you performed prior to your disability and Social Security decides that you can't perform other work due to your condition. Additionally, your disability must be expected to last for a minimum of one year or to cause your death.

Qualifying for Social Security disability benefits isn't easy. To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must work in a job that is covered by Social Security and have a current medical condition that lines up with the specific Social Security disability definition.

If you qualify, Social Security usually pays monthly benefits to people who can't work for at least one year due to disability. You'll receive Social Security benefits until you can return to work. Social Security's "work incentives" offer ongoing benefits to aid you in your return to the workplace.

Social Security disability benefits are equal to your full retirement benefit. By applying for disability benefits, you won't be penalized for early retirement. And, if you're collecting disability benefits when you reach full retirement, the disability benefits will automatically switch to retirement benefits.

Social Security Full Retirement Age

The table details full retirement age based on year of birth according to the Social Security Administration.