Can I get Social Security Disability for a Short-Term Disability?

Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are an important source of income for people whose medical conditions prevent them from working at any job for which they are qualified. 

However, while SSD benefits are a lifeline for many who cannot work, these benefits do not provide coverage for all people in all circumstances. Anyone who is considering applying for Social Security Disability should strongly consider talking with a Los Angeles disability lawyer to find out if they are likely to qualify for benefits and to get help with the complicated application process. 

​Is it Possible to Get Social Security Disability for a Short-Term Ailment

​One of the most common questions that arises in connection with Social Security Disability is whether it is possible to get Social Security Disability benefits if you have a short-term disabling condition that will last just for a limited period of time. 

The answer to this question, unfortunately, is generally no. Social Security Disability benefits are available only for people with long-term disabling conditions, and long-term conditions have a very specific definition. If your condition is not expected to last a year or more, or if your condition is not a fatal one, you cannot get disability benefits from the Social Security Administration because your condition is not long-term.

There may be other potential sources of benefits for short-term disability, such as workers' compensation if your injury was work-related or short-term benefits programs operated through the state of California. A Los Angeles Social Security disability benefits attorney can provide insight into all possible sources of disability income available to you if you have medical issues that make work impossible.