Diabetes mellitus is a group of disorders that causes elevated blood sugar levels in the body. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 10.5% of the US population has diabetes.
The seriousness of diabetes
Diabetes is a very serious disease that can lead to severe complications. These complications include blindness, kidney failure, and impaired sensations in the hands and feet. Diabetes can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. If you are experiencing any symptoms of diabetes, this can impact your ability to work.
What qualifies for social security disability benifits
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least twelve months. If you suffer uncontrolled diabetes that results in severe complications from your diabetes diagnosis, you may qualify for benefits. You will need to show that the symptoms you experience limit your ability to perform full-time work, and you can’t hold any other job that fits your age, education, and work experience.
When applying for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will review your medical record, doctor’s opinions, and statements from friends or family to see how the complications from your diabetes result in functional limitations that prevent you from working.
Listing of Impairments
The Social Security Administration has a Listing of Impairments that tells you how severe a condition must be to qualify for disability benefits. If your condition meets the requirements of a listing, you will automatically be qualified for disability benefits.
Diabetes is not in the Listing of Impairments that can automatically qualify you for disability benefits. But many complications that arise from diabetes are listed in the Listing of Impairments.
For example, if you have nerve damage in your arms or legs, you may qualify under the Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathies Listing. To qualify for benefits under this Listing, you’ll need to show that your neuropathy causes a significant limitation in your ability to walk, stand, or use your hands.
Located in California? Contact us today for a free disability evaluation
Applying for Social Security benefits with diabetes can be a complicated process. At the LaPorte Law Firm, we have experience helping those who suffer from diabetes file a claim for benefits. Contact us for a free consultation.
