What is the definition of 'disability' needed to qualify for Social Security?

The definition of 'disability' required to qualify for Social Security is that it must be a long-term inability to work in any occupation. This means that the individual must be unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

This definition emphasizes the permanence and severity of the condition, focusing on the overall capacity to work rather than specific job tasks or daily activities. A temporary inability to work falls short of the criteria since it does not imply a lasting impact on a person's ability to hold any job. Similarly, an inability to perform selected job tasks or conduct daily activities does not fully capture the broader requirement of being unable to work in any gainful capacity. Hence, the correct understanding of 'disability' under Social Security necessitates a comprehensive inability to engage in any type of work for an extended period.