There are a little under 10 million people receiving disability benefits from Social Security.
That is an exceedingly small percentage of the US population.
Yet, the total number of people in the US who qualify under the ADA’s definition of disabled is around 54 million.
Why the difference between the two? It turns out that the definitions used for SSI purposes and ADA purposes don’t line up.
Think you might qualify for SSI benefits?
Keep reading for an overview of the differences and what it means for claims.
What Is a Disability?
If you’re wondering what qualifies as a disability for SSI purposes, you’re not alone.
SSI uses a fairly strict definition for the term disability. For them, a disability means:
- Physical or mental condition that can be medically identified
- The condition will likely result in death
- The condition has or will last for a full year
- The condition prevents gainful employment
Unless your condition meets these criteria, it’s unlikely that Social Security will approve your claim.
Since SSI helps low-income individuals and children, Social Security takes assets into account for determining benefits for minors and disabled adults with blindness.
Why Does this Definition Matter?
This definition matters a lot because it differs meaningfully from the definition used in the Americans with Disabilities Act, which is the main law that protects those with disabilities.
The ADA considers a disability a physical or mental condition that impairs key life activities.
Under this definition, you qualify even if your condition won’t result in death or prevent gainful employment.
So what qualifies as a disability under the ADA? Some common examples include:
- Deafness
- Blindness
- Autism
- Mobility impairments
- Cancer
While something like deafness might impair some life activities, it won’t directly kill you or prevent work.
That means it isn’t acceptable for qualifying for SSI benefits.
Securing Your Benefits
If your medical condition meets the definition set out by Social Security, applying with Social Security is your first step in securing benefits.
Social Security will review your application and either approve your application for further review or deny your application.
If approved, a disabilities determination office in your state will complete a recommendation.
If you believe you or your child qualify and were wrongly denied benefits, you will likely need help from a local law firm with SSI experience.
An SSI disability attorney can help you get a handle on the process and assist with appeals on the decision.
Getting Through the Process
The question of what is a disability will play a significant role in the SSI process for kids.
For adults, assets and blindness will be the primary factor.
For kids, they must qualify financially and meet Social Security’s definition for a disability.
You will need medical records that prove the disability or blindness.
You must also provide evidence of your or the child’s lack of financial resources to qualify.
If wrongly denied, you should seek help from an SSI disability attorney.
You can find more tips for kids and adults in our Lifestyle and Wellness sections.