In the ninth social security code (SGB IX) a disability is defined as follows in section 2: "people with disabilities are people, the physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments have them in interactions with einstellungs-and environmental" Barriers to the equal participation in society with a high probability for more than six months can prevent. An impairment exists pursuant to sentence 1, if the body and State of health of the State typical for the age of differs. People are threatened by disabilities, impairment is expected pursuant to sentence 1." The degree of disability (GdB) is the measure of physical, psychological, spiritual and social impact which caused by a malfunction or result in a damage to health. Details are regulated in the supply medicine regulation. The GdB is graduated in increments of ten and varies between 20 and 100. A GdB 50 is considered one hard disabled and can apply for a seat. Concerned with a GdB of less than 50 and at least 30 can apply for their equality at the federal employment agency with a severely disabled people.

Often relatives take care of their disabled family member. If the person concerned can no longer settle certain financial, legal or personal matters on his own in everyday life, the carer must be authorised or used by the court as a official caregiver. It is important, in principle, to follow the wishes of the subject