Partially because autoimmune disorders are often largely “invisible,” they tend to be fairly misunderstood by most. For many autoimmune patients, their conditions aren’t just inconvenient. They can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to work and maintain a normal lifestyle.
These conditions, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and others, occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, often leading to chronic pain, fatigue and other debilitating symptoms. When someone is struggling – either in an ongoing or intermittent way – with an autoimmune disorder that prevents them from working, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
SSDI eligibility
Seeking SSDI benefits can be tough as an autoimmune patient, partially because autoimmune conditions manifest in unique ways – and to unique degrees – in each individual. If you have an autoimmune condition, to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must demonstrate that your autoimmune disorder significantly impairs your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains specific eligibility criteria for various autoimmune disorders. If your condition reflects the criteria listed in the Blue Book, you may automatically qualify for benefits. However, many autoimmune conditions present symptoms that are not easily categorized or may vary in severity, making it difficult to meet the SSA’s requirements.
With that said, even if your condition doesn’t meet the Blue Book criteria, you may still qualify for SSDI by proving that your autoimmune disorder limits your ability to work to the extent that it is not possible for you to engage in substantial gainful employment.
Due to the unique nature of autoimmune conditions, seeking SSDI benefits as an autoimmune patient can be a particularly challenging undertaking. Thankfully, seeking personalized legal guidance is an option at all times.