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Lesson Topics
Introduction
Qualifying for Benefits
Evaluation Process
Who Can Get Benefits
Applying for Benefits
Estimating Benefits
Computing FERS Disability Benefits
Reductions to Benefits
Resources
Summary & Case Studies

Social Security's Definition of Disability

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A hospital's emergency room entrance

The definition of disability under Social Security is different from the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM's) definition used in Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) disability determinations.

Disability under Social Security is based on a person's inability to work due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. To qualify for disability benefits, an individual must be:

  • Unable to do the work that he or she did before, and
  • Unable to do any other work—"substantial gainful activity"—because of the disability.

In addition, a person's disability must also be expected to last (or have lasted) for at least one year, or to result in death.

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