My doctor said that I am disabled. Does that mean I should qualify for disability benefits?

No. Unfortunately, your doctor’s diagnosis alone is not sufficient to qualify for benefits. The Social Security Administration has a very rigid definition of disability. You must be unable to perform any substantial work because of your disabling injury or illness and your medical condition must be expected to last a year or longer or be a terminal condition.You may be directed to see a doctor for a medical examination arranged by the Social Security Administration. This doctor will submit an evaluation of your disability and whether you are still able to do substantial work.

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you also must have a substantial employment history and contributed to Social Security.