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Diabetes is one of the most common chronic health disorders in the United States. The American Diabetes Association estimates that 34.2 million people—approximately 10 percent of the population—have been diagnosed with diabetes. While diabetes can be managed, it also has the potential to be a severe, debilitating medical impairment.
It is possible to qualify for Social Security disability benefits for diabetes—but a diagnosis by itself is not sufficient. Typically, you also need to prove that you are dealing with an additional (related or unrelated) medical impairment. In this article, our Phoenix SSDI & SSI lawyers explain the most important things to know about qualifying for Social Security disability benefits for diabetes.
Social Security Disability Medical Evaluation: Diabetes
Diabetes can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. These claims generally fall under the SSA’s Disability Evaluation Under Social Security: 9.00 Endocrine Disorders. Notably, the SSA makes no technical distinction between Type I diabetes and Type II diabetes—you can file for disability benefits for either form of diabetes. Further, the SSA made reforms in 2011 that make it more challenging for many people to get a disability claim approved for diabetes or other endocrine disorders.
You will not automatically qualify for Social Security disability benefits on the basis of a diabetes diagnosis alone. An applicant generally needs to prove that they are dealing with one or more additional disabling conditions. Most people who get SSDI or SSI benefits for Type I diabetes or Type II diabetes do so through a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment. If your RFC demonstrates that a medical impairment is keeping you from working, you may qualify for disability benefits.
Know the Technical Eligibility Requirements: Beyond medical eligibility, an applicant must also satisfy financial and legal requirements. Your disability claim for diabetes could be denied on technical grounds. For example, an applicant whose income is too high may not qualify for benefits.
Comprehensive Medical Records Help Establish Diabetes as a Qualifying Disability
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for diabetes, you must provide comprehensive medical evidence that proves the existence and severity of your diabetes diagnosis. The SSA will take a close look at the medical records that you provide as part of your application to assess the severity of your impairment. If you have any questions about organizing medical evidence for your diabetes claim, contact an experienced Phoenix, AZ Social Security disability attorney for help with your case.
Is Diabetes Preventing You From Working On a Full-Time Basis?
Our law firm can help. At Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys, we work tirelessly to help people get the full financial benefits that they rightfully deserve. If you have any questions about getting Social Security disability benefits for diabetes, we are more than ready to help. Reach out to us by phone or send us a direct message for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our law firm serves clients in communities throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale.
