If you suffer from lupus, which is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes increasing harm to your body as time passes, you might be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two kinds of disability benefits for disabled workers. The SSA views lupus as a serious impairment that sometimes results in eligibility for disability benefits.
Sometimes lupus develops slowly and responds to treatments, but for others the condition doesn’t respond to treatments or the condition is more aggressive and prevents you from working. Lupus can cause painful joints, organ damage, osteoporosis, kidney disease, heart problems, weakness, and fatigue. Thousands of applicants have claims denied annually. If you are ready to apply for disability benefits, seek the guidance of a Social Security attorney or advocate to help you with your claim.
How Does Lupus Qualify For Disability Benefits?
The SSA uses a medical guide, which is called the Blue Book, to determine whether or not an individual qualifies for disability benefits. Lupus would be considered under the Immune System Disorders section of the Blue Book. To meet the medical criteria of the listing, you have to have at least two body systems or organs affected by the disease and you experience other symptoms or signs regularly, such as weight loss, fever, fatigue, and aches or pains. You can meet the listing by proving that your daily functioning is significantly compromised because of your lupus complication and symptoms.
How Can An Attorney Help Me While Applying?
Although you are unable to work because of lupus, it might be difficult to determine if you meet the Blue Book criteria for the listing. Your Social Security advocate or attorney will determine if you meet those criteria and help you evaluate your case. Evidence and medical records will be gathered and your limitations and restrictions will be evaluated. As an example, if your lupus causes extreme fatigue and the medication you take to control the pain causes drowsiness or dizziness, you might be approved for benefits. Your treatments and their side effects should also be considered in the process.
How Can My Attorney Help Me If My Claim Is Denied?
If your disability benefits claim for lupus is denied, you attorney will reevaluate your condition and help gather the documentation to show that your symptoms and side effects prevent you from working and earning a substantial gainful income. Using a medical-vocational allowance, your age, work history, work skills, educational background, and medical conditions will all be considered. If your claim is denied, you can file an appeal and request that your case go before an administrative law judge where you will be questioned by a vocational expert.
Your attorney or advocate can help you prepare for this questioning. Some applicable questions might be “How does the pain medication impact your thinking?” “Has the stiffness and pain in your joints impacted your ability to reach above your head or bend over?” “Do the fevers cause you to miss work?”
Connect With An Attorney Today
When you are ready to apply for disability benefits, you should consult with an advocate or disability attorney. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page so your details can be shared with a local Social Security advocate or attorney. With the help of a lawyer or advocate, you can get your claim on the right track.
