DI 00115.015 Definitions of Disability

For all persons applying for disability benefits under title II, and for adults applying under title XVI, the definition of disability is the same.

A. Definition of disability for adults

that prevents him or her from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA), and

has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death.

NOTE: The definition of disability also applies to persons applying for child’s insurance benefits based on disability before age 22 and for disability benefits payable after December 1990 as a widow(er) or surviving divorced spouse.

B. Definition of disability for children under age 18

Under title XVI, we consider a child under age 18 disabled under Social Security rules if:

the child has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or combination of impairments) that:

causes marked and severe functional limitations;

has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death; and