Which disability is defined as being less than total impairment but permanent?

• A. Total disability
• B. Temporary disability
• C. Permanent partial disability
• D. Residual disability

Answer: (C)

Permanent partial disability describes a lasting impairment that is not total. It fits the idea of being permanent, yet less than a complete loss of function, so the person is not totally disabled but does have a permanent limit in their abilities. In disability policies, this category is used when the injury leaves a measurable, enduring impairment but the individual retains some capacity to work or function. This is different from total disability (no ability to perform any substantial duties) and temporary disability (a short-term condition expected to improve). Residual disability often relates to the ongoing economic impact after recovery, rather than the permanent impairment itself, so the term that matches “less than total impairment but permanent” is permanent partial disability.