Why Social Security Disability Is Not The Same As Other Federal Disability Laws

The combination of federal laws that protect people with disabilities may seem confusing, but each law serves an important and unified purpose. It is the goal of federal disability laws to help people with disabilities. Some of the federal laws provide for equal access or equal rights for people with disabilities. However, each law has its own definition of disability and serves its own unique purpose.

An Overview of Federal Disability Laws

Below are just some of the federal laws that apply to people with disabilities:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law is designed to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities.
• Fair Housing Act (FHA). This law prevents housing discrimination against people with disabilities factors.
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This requires public school districts to provide children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
• Rehabilitation Act. This law prevents discrimination against people with disabilities by the federal government, by programs that receive funds from the federal government, and in the employment practices of federal contractors.

Each of these laws is important in preventing discrimination against people with disabilities, but none of them helps a person whose condition prevents them from earning a livelihood even if accommodations are made.

For These People Social Security Disability May Be an Option

If you are unable to work because of your medical condition and your condition is expected to last more than one year or to result in death, you may be eligible for Social Security disability. It is a financial benefit that is available to people with severe disabilities who have paid into the Social Security system—it is not a benefit that is available to everyone with disabilities.

If you have questions about your eligibility for Social Security disability, it is important to work with an attorney who has experience in this narrow area of the law and who can help you make your case to the Social Security Administration so you can get the benefits you deserve. To learn more, please start a live chat with us today.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

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