Understanding Partial Disability

Partial disability typically refers to a situation where:

• You are still able to perform some work tasks but not all.
• Your condition limits the number of hours you can work or the type of work you can perform.
• You have lost some, but not all, of your income-earning ability due to your medical condition.

Partial disability benefits aim to help individuals who experience a reduction in their ability to work, rather than a complete inability to work.

Types of Partial Disability Benefits

Depending on your situation and location, you may qualify for different types of partial disability benefits, including:

Workers' Compensation Partial Disability Benefits

If you were injured at work, you might be eligible for partial disability benefits through workers’ compensation. These benefits can be either:

• Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If you are expected to recover eventually but currently can’t perform your full job duties.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If you have a lasting impairment but can still work in some capacity.

Benefits often provide a portion of your lost wages based on the severity of your disability and your previous earnings.

Private Insurance Partial Disability Benefits

Some private insurance policies, particularly long-term disability (LTD) insurance, offer partial or residual disability benefits. If you have LTD coverage, you might qualify for partial benefits if:

• You can work part-time or at a reduced capacity.
• Your income is significantly reduced because of your disability.

The policy will usually pay a percentage of the difference between your old income and your new, reduced income.

Social Security Disability (SSDI and SSI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are generally intended for individuals who are totally disabled. The SSA does not offer benefits specifically for partial disability. However:

• You can work and still receive benefits under the SSA’s “Ticket to Work” program and certain trial work periods.
• If you work but earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit ($1,550 per month in 2024 for non-blind individuals), you may still qualify for benefits.

In other words, limited work may still be allowed, but your disability must be severe enough to prevent full-time work.

Eligibility for Partial Disability Benefits

Each benefit program has its own requirements, but in general, to qualify for partial disability benefits, you must show:

• Medical evidence proving a physical or mental impairment.
• Reduced earning capacity compared to before your disability.
• Compliance with treatment plans and proof you are not voluntarily reducing your work hours.

Workers' compensation, private insurance companies, and public programs will require documentation and ongoing evaluations.

How to Apply for Partial Disability Benefits

Applying for partial disability benefits usually involves:

• Filing a claim with your employer’s workers' compensation insurance, your private disability insurer, or other appropriate program.
• Providing medical records that document your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
• Submitting employment and wage records to show loss of income due to your disability.
• Following up if additional information or assessments are required.

It’s important to act quickly because deadlines for filing claims can vary by program.

What If You Are Denied?

Partial disability claims, like total disability claims, can be denied. If that happens:

• Appeal the decision: Most programs allow you to appeal if your claim is denied.
• Gather additional evidence: Stronger medical opinions or updated treatment records can strengthen your case.
• Consider getting legal help: A disability attorney can assist you through the appeals process and improve your chances of success.