CPP Disability - Definition of 'Severe and Prolonged'

"Severe" means that a person is incapable of regularly pursuing any substantially gainful occupation.

Within this definition, the words mean:

incapable: Not able or fit to pursue any substantially gainful occupation as a result of the disability.

regularly: The capacity to work is sustainable.

pursuing: To actually engage in an occupation, and does not mean being able to look for work.

any: Work that a person might reasonably be expected to do regardless of whether it is his/her previous job by virtue of:

• having the necessary skills, education or training;
• having the capacity to acquire those necessary skills, education or training in the short term; and,
• having reasonable access to suitable employment, given the individual's limitations but does not mean a job has to be available.

substantially gainful occupation: Work that is productive and profitable. This is measured in part by a dollar amount that is set annually and against which a person's earnings are compared. However, earnings alone do not determine whether the regular capacity to pursue work exists. CPP also assesses elements of functional capacity, productivity and performance.

"Prolonged" means that the disability will prevent the individual from going back to work in the next 12 months, or is likely to result in death.

To qualify, the applicant must meet both the "severe" and "prolonged" criteria. HRDC medical adjudicators assess the severity of the disability first. If the applicant does not meet the "severe" criteria, HRDC does not consider the question of whether the disability is prolonged.

Many people mistakenly believe that CPP eligibility decisions are granted on the basis of a specific disease or condition alone. This is not the case. Rather, the decision is based on the limitations that a disease or condition imposes on a person's ability to work and earn an income on a regular basis.

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