If you suffer from diabetes, it could limit your ability to work. However, it can be difficult to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits because the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not consider diabetes disabling if it is controlled. However, you may eligible for benefits if you can show that your diabetes is uncontrolled, you suffer from serious complications, or your disease affects your residual functional ability (RFC).
When You May Be Eligible for SSDI If Your Diabetes Is Uncontrolled
Diabetes is a medical condition that occurs when a person’s body does not produce enough insulin to process glucose. While it can often be controlled with medication and diet, it can become uncontrolled and cause other medical problems as a person becomes older.
If your diabetes has become uncontrolled, you may qualify for SSDI benefits if it has caused you to be unable to work for at least 12 months, or you do not believe that you will be able to work for the next 12 months or longer. However, your disease must severely limit your ability to function.
Complications From Diabetes That Are Considered Disabling
Another way you can obtain SSDI benefits for diabetes is to show that you have a complication from your disability that is in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, which is a list of medical conditions that the SSA considers disabling. Complications associated with diabetes that may qualify you for benefits include:
- Poorly healing skin and bacterial infections. If you have ulcerating skin lesions for at least three months that make it difficult for you to walk or use your hands, you may qualify for benefits.
- Diabetic nephropathy. This is a medical condition affecting the kidneys and is considered disabling if you need daily dialysis.
- Diabetic peripheral nephropathy. If you suffer from nerve damage that limits your mobility or ability to stand or use your hands, the SSA may approve your application for benefits.
- Diabetic retinopathy. Unfortunately, diabetes can reduce your vision. Your vision loss must meet SSA requirements in order to qualify you for benefits.
- Cardiovascular disease. Artery disease, chronic heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, and heart murmurs are complications of diabetes included in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments.
- Amputation. If you had to have a foot or other extremity amputated due to severe nerve damage or poor circulation, your application for SSDI benefits may be approved.
Eligibility for SSDI Based on Your Residual Functional Capacity
A common way to qualify for SSDI benefits is to show that your disease limits your residual functional capacity (RFC) so much that you can no longer work. Your RFC is the level of activity you can perform given your medical condition. The SSA will determine your RFC based on your medical records, your doctor’s opinion, and statements from family, friends, and you.
Are you unable to work due to your diabetes? Let us help you file your application with the supporting evidence you need to prove your disability and fight for the SSDI benefits you deserve. Call our Roswell disability lawyer or start a live chat to schedule your free consultation today.
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