There are several immune conditions that may be covered by your Social Security disability benefits if they interfere with or prevent you from working. If you meet the Social Security Administration’s requirements for autoimmune conditions, you may be eligible to apply. The Law Center for Social Security Disability can help you with your application and make sure you get the coverage you need.
Autoimmune Conditions and the Social Security Administration Blue Book
The Social Security Administration uses its Blue Book to identify what conditions it will and will not cover through benefits. This document also specifies what criteria an individual must meet to qualify for disability benefits. When it comes to adult immune system disorders, there are three categories that they recognize and will provide disability benefits for, for qualifying individuals.
Autoimmune Disorders
An autoimmune disorder occurs when a compromised immune system attacks the body itself, rather than foreign pathogens. These conditions can affect tissues, organs, skin, nerves, blood, and more, and result in serious limitations for the affected individual.
Per section 14.00D of the SSA Blue Book, the following conditions are classified as an autoimmune disorder:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Systemic vasculitis
- Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma)
- Polymyositis and dermatomyositis
- Undifferentiated and mixed connective tissue disease
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Sjögren’s syndrome
Immune Deficiency Disorders
Immune deficiency disorders can occur when an individual’s body cannot properly fight off pathogens and frequently suffers from infections. These conditions may not be easily treated, so individuals have to regularly manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of infection.
Section 14.00E of the SSA Blue Book breaks immune deficiency disorders into congenital or acquired conditions. Congenital disorders include conditions an individual has had since birth and include DiGeorge syndrome, chronic granulomatous disease, and more. Conversely, acquired conditions are often caused by illnesses and medications that compromise the immune system.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a condition where the body attacks its own immune system. If the virus goes untreated, it can develop into AIDS. According to the SSA Blue Book section 14.00F, Individuals who suffer from both an HIV infection and AIDS qualify for SSDI benefits.
Applying for SSDI Benefits for Autoimmune Diseases
If you have one of the autoimmune conditions referenced above, you may be eligible to apply for SSDI benefits. You will need to fill out an application and submit medical records, test results, examinations, and other applicable documentation about your illness. A lawyer can answer your Social Security disability questions before applying, so you have everything you need and are prepared for the application process.
SSDI Benefits Provide Valuable Assistance for Individuals Suffering from Immune Conditions
An autoimmune condition can wreak havoc on your life, and SSDI benefits offset the financial burden of reduced or lost income. When seeking disability benefits for an autoimmune condition, it is beneficial to consult with a lawyer from The Law Center for Social Security Disability to determine which type you qualify for and how to apply.