Social Security covers disabled workers

When the unexpected happens and you can no longer work due to a serious medical condition, Social Security is there with a lifeline to help you and your family.

Here are some facts you should know about Social Security’s disability program:

• Social Security disability insurance is coverage that workers earn. The program provides a safety net to disabled workers who’ve paid enough Social Security taxes on their earnings. Social Security disability benefits replace some of their income if their medical condition leaves them unable to work.

• The Social Security Act defines disability very strictly. A person is considered disabled under the Social Security Act if they can’t work due to a serious medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least one year or result in death. Social Security does not offer temporary or partial disability benefits.

• Disability can happen to anyone at any age. Serious medical conditions, such as cancer and mental illness, affect the young and elderly alike. One in four 20-year- olds will become disabled before retirement age and may need Social Security disability benefits’ critical support.

• Social Security works aggressively to prevent, detect and help prosecute fraud. Social Security is committed to protecting your investment. Along with the Office of Inspector General, Social Security takes a zero toler- ance approach to fraud. The result is a fraud incidence rate of a fraction of 1 percent.

Learn more about the disability insurance program at socialsecurity.gov/disability.