Social Security disability refers to disability insurance coverage that is provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA is a federal agency that funds a number of social programs including disability insurance.
In the context of the law, a person must meet the legal requirements for disability in order to receive disability benefits from the SSA.
Disabilities are injuries and illnesses that can prevent a person from participating in substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. (Disabilities can prevent a person from earning an income.) Examples of disabilities include paralysis, blindness, cancer, a broken back, etc.
There are disability lawyers who can help people through the process of applying for Social Security disability. If a person is successfully approved for disability benefits by the Social Security Administration, then they can receive an income replacement, or partial income replacement, from the SSA.