August 8, 2008, Newsletter Issue #22: The Social Security Definition of “Disability” in Disability Income Insurance

Tip of the Week

Social Security disability income insurance has a definition of disability that, at first, appears rather simple. But remember, satisfying the disability definition of government Social Security disability programs is only a first step in qualifying for benefits. Here is the basic definition of disability for Social Security disability insurance.

You cannot do the work you did before your disability. Regardless of your former job responsibilities, if you are unable to perform these duties, you meet the first criterion. You cannot adjust to performing another type of work because of your medical condition. Social Security has a published list outlining all of the allowable medical conditions that could cause disability per their definition. Your disability has lasted or projects to last for at least one year or should result in death. Social Security disability is not designed to be a short-term solution to a potential long-term problem. This definition may or may not be similar to the language in group or individual disability insurance policies. The key to disability definitions, regardless of the insurer, is to understand how an eligible condition is explained. Knowing if you are disabled per the language of your coverage will save you time, money, and stress if you believe you have a covered claim.

The above-listed tip is for informational use only. Refer to your insurance policy contract for specific information regarding your coverage and for actual terms, conditions and exclusions. The above statements are general in nature and may or may not reflect the actual terms of your insurance policy.

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