Social Security and Partial Disability: What You Should Know

Unfortunately, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) do not cover partial disability.

To qualify for benefits through the SSA, you must meet their strict definition of “total disability.” That means:

• Your condition must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA)
• Your disability must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death
• You must be unable to perform your past work and any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy

There is no option for partial or short-term disability under SSA programs.

What If You Can Work a Little?

Even if you can perform some part-time work, you might still qualify for benefits if your earnings stay below the SSA’s monthly income limits (known as the SGA threshold).

In 2025, this limit is approximately:

• $1,550/month for non-blind individuals
• $2,590/month for blind individuals

So, if you are working but earning less than these amounts, you may still qualify—depending on the severity of your condition.

Alternatives to SSA Disability for Partial Disability

If your condition doesn’t meet SSA’s strict total disability standard, you may want to explore:

• Private short-term or long-term disability insurance policies (often available through employers)
• Workers’ compensation if your disability is job-related
• Veterans’ disability benefits, which do provide partial ratings and compensation based on the degree of disability

These other programs do recognize partial disability, unlike the SSA.