What is Invalidity?
For Social Security, the term invalidity refers to a state of illness in which a person is rendered unable to work as result of a specific disease or disablement. It could be either physical or mental. The condition must have lasted for more than 26 weeks and must be likely to remain permanent.
Who Qualifies for Invalidity Benefit?
You may qualify for Invalidity Benefit if you:
- are incapable of working as a result of a specific disease or medical condition that has existed for at least twenty-six weeks and is likely to be permanent (except for cases related to employment injury)
- have at least 150 paid contributions into the Social Security Fund
- are between the age of 16 and 62 years
When should you claim?
You should submit your claim for Invalidity Benefit within 3 months after the end of the twenty-six week period during which ill health has kept you from working.