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If you suffer from a disability caused by a compromised immune system, you might be eligible for disability benefits after meeting the required qualifications. Social Security Disability (SSD) guidelines for receiving disability benefits require you to meet specific criteria.
You might qualify as disabled by SSD if your immune system disorder will not allow you to continue doing your previous job, will not allow you to engage in another form of employment, and the duration of your disabling condition is expected to be longer than a year or to result in your demise. The guidance and direction of a disability attorney might help you understand and effectively navigate the intricate application process.
Seek Disability for a Compromised Immune System
Because your immune system protects your entire body by helping it stave off harmful germs and limit their potential damage, as presented here by Cleveland Clinic, any impairment to your immune system might create dire health concerns. It is comprised of your:
- Skin
- Tonsils
- Spleen
- Lymph nodes
- White blood cells
- Mucous membranes
When your immune system is compromised, it can lead to a host of medical issues. Many medical conditions that seriously impact your immune system might be included in the SSD Listing of Impairments. Those conditions include:
- HIV
- Lupus
- Arthritis
- Scleroderma
- Inflamed blood vessels
- Connective tissue disease
You can apply for disability benefits if you have a condition on this list. The physical limitations you experience from your immune system medical conditions must be severe enough to make it difficult or impossible for you to work. You should begin the application process by compiling medical evidence that establishes your qualifying limitations.
Define What Compromises Your Immune System
You will need to present evidence that you have a compromised immune system to qualify for disability benefits. The information Social Security Disability administrators use to measure your degree of impairment may include your:
- Complete medical history
- Recent medical findings
- Imaging exam results
- List of symptoms
- Your specific disease
- Resulting dysfunctions
- Mobility assessment
You may also be assessed according to whether your symptoms are persistent, recurrent, resistant, or severe. Depending on your specific illness, you might also be evaluated based on how your illness impacts your daily activities, personal life, and social behaviors. If your condition is deemed severe enough, you might be eligible for disability benefits through one or both SSD application options.
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Understand Your Application Options
Part of applying for disability benefits is knowing which benefits program you are eligible to receive. Social Security Disability is actually an umbrella program that includes the following three SSD benefits options:
- Social Security Disability Insurance Program (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI)
- Concurrent Benefits
If you worked recently enough, worked a sufficient amount of time, and participated in the Social Security program, you may qualify for SSDI benefits. If you have a qualifying disability and can prove you have little to no financial or other beneficial resources, you may qualify for SSI benefits. If your circumstances dictate, you might also qualify to receive concurrent benefits from both SSD programs.
The disability lawyer who helps you navigate the application process might also be able to help you apply for all the benefits programs you qualify for. If you are entitled to concurrent benefits, your lawyer might also be able to help you determine the type and amount of medical and financial benefits you might be entitled to receive.
Understand Your Appeal Options
Similar to the programs available for filing your initial application, you also have a variety of options available as part of the appeals process. The SSD appeals process allows you to contest a denied application via the following ways:
- Reconsideration – your application is reassessed by a new and impartial party.
- Hearing – an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) conducts a hearing to review your application and denial.
- Appeals Council – the ALJ’s decision is reviewed and either affirmed, reversed, or your case remanded during this process.
- Federal Court – your lawyer may help you file a lawsuit in civil court.
You do not have to fight for benefits through the appeals process on your own. The disability lawyer who represents you during the application phase may also represent you during each step of the multi-level appeals process.
File for Disability Benefits Right Away
Compiling the required documents and completing the application process for Social Security Disability benefits can be complex and lengthy. Once your application is approved, it can take several months before you start receiving benefits. Starting the application process and submitting a complete application as soon as possible may work in your favor. Do not delay contacting the SSD team at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, by calling (828) 286-3866 to learn more about the immune system disorders that qualify for disability benefits and to get help navigating the benefits application process.
