This paper is based on the analysis of disability benefits in the context of coordination of the social security systems of the European Union, with a particular focus on the rules and conditions for obtaining such benefits under Regulation (EC) No. 883/2004 on the coordination of social security systems. The first part of the paper will provide a brief overview of the overall legislation of the European Union, followed by an examination of national legislation, specifically the legislation of the Republic of Croatia, with an emphasis on the legal sources of particular importance for this type of benefit. The second part of the paper will define the concept of disability as a physical or mental impairment that restricts an individual in performing their basic existential needs. Attention will also be drawn to the diverging interpretations of the concept of disability in different Member States and how it can be a barrier to accessing benefits in a country other than the home country, especially considering that the principle of assimilation, a fundamental principle of coordination on which Regulation No 883/2004 is based, cannot be applied in such cases. The specific benefits considered as disability benefits and the procedures for obtaining them will be outlined, considering the type of legislation to which an individual is subject at the time of disability, while considering the pension record. Referring to relevant case law, the paper will present the system of disability benefits, distinguishing them from other types of benefits within the social security system. In the final part, the paper will explore the situation where disability benefits are converted into old-age benefits and the issues concerning the relationship between disability benefits and benefits for accidents at work and occupational diseases.