Are You Eligible for Social Security Disability?

As you know, lupus affects people in different ways. Everyone’s disease, essentially, is different. For some, the effects of the disease are far milder than others. For those with severe cases of lupus, the disease can be debilitating. But is it a disability, as defined by the government? And if so, why would that matter?

It matters because, if you are unable to work due to your illness, you may qualify for Social Security benefits, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) does consider lupus a potentially disabling illness and includes SLEin their listing of impairments. And those benefits may bridge the economic gap for many Americans.

But first, it is important to note that a diagnosis of lupus is not reason enough to qualify a person for disability benefits. You must meet the SSA’s definition of as disability if you are to even be considered for benefits. That definition is:

The inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

If you believe this sounds like you, then your next step is to consult your healthcare provider to see if he or she agrees. If so, then it’s time to contact Social Security and ask for information and all the necessary forms you might need to apply for disability insurance.

How Old Are You?

And it’s worth noting before you go any further, that eligibility requirements are based on past work (the program is funded through income tax) and age – you have to be under 65 and have worked a certain amount of time and within a reasonable timeframe from when you first request disability. In other words, if you haven’t worked in 10 years, you probably won’t be eligible.

If this is you, don’t fret. You may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income, which covers those under 65 who haven’t worked in some time – or long enough – to be eligible for disability insurance.

You can find contact information for your local SSA office in the phone book or online, or call 1-800-772-1213, SSA’s toll free number. It’s manned from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. For even further information, visit the SSA’s Disability Planner.

The Waiting Game

The process of applying and receiving approval can, in some instances, take a year or longer, so you must consider this and be prepared for this probability.

In other words, it is best to keep a close eye on your claim, double and triple check the information you provide the SSA, provide as much information as possible that will stir the SSA to approve your application. It’s hard work, and you must be prepared for that, as well.

Denied? Appeal!

If you are denied, don’t consider it a stopping point. Often, this denial is just a statement that says not information was provided to approve the application. There is an appeals process. Take it. Provide even more information, and show the SSA that you are serious.

Denied again? Appeal again. But this time, know that you are going to go before a judge, who will rule in your case. At this stage in the game, it is best to get a lawyer. You can find one through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives.

_{Source:
Work and Disability Issues. Lupus Foundation of America. June 11, 2008.}

Social Security Disability Planner. U.S. Social Security Administration. June 12, 2008.