The definition of disabled can mean different things to different people. It is important to remember that when attempting to file for disability benefits such as SSDI or SSI, you must meet the criteria that Social Security has settled upon. Their definition of disabled may be quite different from yours. Just what is Social Security's definition of disabled? When a person is not able to do any type of "substantial gainful activity" because of a "medically determinable" physical or mental problem that will last at least a year or will eventually result in death, then that person is considered to be disabled as far as Social Security is concerned. If a person meets this definition of disabled, and has the medical records to prove their claim of disability, then they will more than likely be able to receive either Social Security Disability Insurance, or Supplemental Security Income every month. If you work, you cannot earn more than $900 per month and still be considered as a disabled individual.