In order to receive disability benefits, people must fall under Social Security’s definition of disability.

SSDI‘s Definition:

To meet our definition of disability, you must not be able to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically-determinable physical or mental impairment(s):

• That is expected to result in death, or
• That has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.

The map below shows the striking contrast between the people receiving SSDI benefits in Appalachia and those outside the region. In the Appalachian disability belt, there are many more counties with shades of dark blue and green emphasizing the increased reliance on disability benefits as a source income in this area versus other areas in the United States.