Disability Income✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
Which statement correctly describes Social Security disability benefits?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
Social Security disability insurance is an entitlement based on the worker's earnings record and insured status, not on financial need. The worker must be fully insured, satisfy the disability-insured recency test, and meet the strict definition of disability, inability to engage in substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or until death. Benefits are computed from average indexed monthly earnings and replace only a portion of prior earnings, typically a higher percentage for lower earners. Certain dependents may also receive auxiliary benefits.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) SSDI is not needs-based; workers with substantial other income remain eligible if they meet the insured-status and disability tests.
- C) Benefits are tied to the earnings record, not to the amount of medical bills incurred.
- D) SSDI replaces only a percentage of prior earnings; it is designed as partial replacement, not 100 percent income replacement.
Memory hook
SSDI asks what you earned, not what you own. It's an earned benefit, not a welfare test.