If you suffer from kidney disease and your condition is disabling making it impossible for you to work, you might be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two kinds of disability benefits for workers who are unable to work because of health conditions. Chronic kidney disease, kidney transplant surgery, and renal failure can all qualify for disability benefits.
If you are unable to work because of your kidney disease, you should consult with a Social Security attorney or advocate so you can get everything in order before filing your claim for disability benefits.
How Does Kidney Disease Qualify For Disability Benefits?
If you suffer from kidney disease you will have your condition reviewed by the criteria set forth in the medical guide, which is called the Blue Book. When it comes to kidney disease, there are different listings that depend on the specific situation you are facing. Chronic kidney disease is listed under Section 6.02, and to be approved for benefits, you must either:
- Undergo dialysis or a kidney transplant OR
- Your serum creatinine levels for a three-month timeframe are either above 4 mg per deciliter or has a clearance level of 20 ml or lower per minute AND you have at least one of these complications:
- Motor or sensory nephropathy
- Renal osteodystrophy
- Chronic fluid overload that is accompanied by anorexia, diastolic hypertension, or vascular congestion
Another kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, is listed in Section 6.06. Its criteria include:
- Proteinuria measurements of 10 g or higher for a 24-hour period and a 3.5 or higher total protein-to-creatinine ratio
OR
- Elevated proteinuria of 3.5 g or higher and consistent serum albumin levels of 3.0 per deciliter or lower
Listing 6.09 for chronic kidney disease with complications requires:
- You must have been hospitalized for a minimum of three times within 12 months with stays no more than 30 days apart AND
- Each hospitalization started with an ER visit that led to inpatient treatment lasting at least 48 hours.
How Can an Attorney Help Me While Applying?
Documentation is the key to a successful claim. Your attorney will gather up medical records and supporting documentation to help you get your claim on track. When your claim is reviewed by Disability Determination Services, you want your challenges caused by kidney disease to be documented so it can be determined how your ability to work and function has been impacted. You want to make sure all physician notes, surgical notes, x-ray reports, scans, lab reports, hospitalization records, and prescription records are included.
How Can An Attorney Help Me If My Claim Is Denied?
Sometimes kidney disease disability claims are denied. Your attorney will file an appeal and provide the required documentation to proceed with this process. You will request a hearing before an administrative law judge for a ruling on your case. A vocational expert will question you during this time.
Some questions you might be asked regarding your kidney disease include, “How does the fatigue caused by your kidney problems affect your work day?” “Are you easily exerted and experience shortness of breath?” “How often do you feel faint, weak, or dizzy and how does that affect your ability to work?” Your attorney will know what kinds of questions you will be asked based on your condition and can help you prepare for your questioning.
Connect With an Attorney Today
Get your claim for disability benefits for kidney disease today. Your attorney or advocate will help you get all your documentation in order. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get your claim underway.
