How does Social Security consider lupus as a disability?Social Security considers lupus as it would consider any other medical or mental impairment. By this we mean that both Social Security Disability and SSI disability are based on an individual's ability, or inability, to perform substantial gainful activity, or SGA. This is essentially work activity that earns a certain minimal amount of earnings which SSA considers to be self-supporting. Eligiblity for disability benefits is not simply, as is often believed to be the case, based upon an individual's diagnosed physical or mental conditions. In other words, being diagnosed with a specific condition will not, in and of itself, result in a disability award. An allowance, or approval for disability, will depend upon the severity of the claimant's symptoms, which can only be proven through information obtained from a claimant's medical records. These records, of course, may include a medical source statement--also known as a residual functional capacity statement--from a claimant's treating physician. Note: Treating physicians are defined as physicians with whom a claimant has a history of receiving treatment, to the extent that the physician would be qualified to comment as to the claimant's prognosis and physical or mental limitations. Many conditions, including lupus, are given consideration in the disability evaluation handbook (usually referred to by judges, attorneys, and disablity examiners as the "blue blook" since the published paper version has a blue cover, and occasionally also referred to as the Social Security Disability list of impairments). Currently, Social Security evaluates lupus by establishing if there is a diagnosis of lupus with one of the following joint: muscle, respiratory, or ocular (eye) involvement. Not surprisingly, only a small majority of cases are aproved on the basis of meeting, or equaling, the requirements of the listing for lupus. Due to the nature of lupus (exacerbations and healthier periods), it is difficult to gain an allowance at the initial or reconsideration levels of Social Security Disability SSI and Filing based on Lupus About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Will I Qualify For Disability Benefits in North Carolina? What does the Severity of your impairment have to do with Your Disability Claim? What are the disability requirements for Lupus Disability for lupus and working How long will it take to get disability for lupus? Lupus and disability back pay What does SSA consider a severe impairment for Social Security Disability or SSI Disability Benefits? What Disabilities Qualify for SSI and Social Security Disability Benefits? How Will Social Security Disability or SSI Look At My Case If I have More Than One Disabling Condition? Social Security Disability Approvals - Medical Conditions and Getting Approved How many Social Security Disability cases are approved for back pain? Will I qualify for disability due to back pain, a bone spur, and bulging discs? Can I Qualify For Disability and Receive Benefits based on Depression? Can a mental illness qualify you for disability? If you have had a heart attack will you qualify for Social Security Disability? How does Social Security consider lupus as a disability? Is Bipolar Disorder a disability according to Social Security? Is multiple sclerosis considered a disability by Social Security? Contacting a Congressman to help a disability case How many SSD or SSI denials will you get before being approved? How long does it take to get a decision on disability in California? How to apply for SSI Disability in California How much does it cost to hire a Social Security Disability attorney in California? |
