There are thousands, if not millions, of medical conditions involving every system of our bodies. But not all of those conditions qualify for disability benefits. For example, blood disorders range from mild anemia to life-threatening leukemia. How will you know if you can get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits? Ask a disability lawyer about Social Security’s listing of impairments and how to qualify for SSDI.
Common Blood Disorders
If you have a blood disorder, then your blood is having trouble functioning correctly. Diseases can involve red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and bone marrow. The study of blood is called hematology.
You may have heard of the following common medical conditions involving blood:
- Anemia
- Leukopenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Lymphoma
- Leukemias
- Myelomas
- Hemophilia
Having one of these conditions means that you need medical treatment. However, it does not necessarily mean that you qualify for disability benefits like SSDI.
Social Security’s Listing of Impairments
The Social Security Administration, which manages SSDI benefits, maintains a comprehensive list of medical conditions. This listing of impairments includes details about the evidence Social Security needs to determine that you are disabled. For example, Social Security might want to see medical reports, doctor’s notes, and medical test results before deciding that you are disabled. Social Security’s listing of impairments splits blood disorders into non-malignant (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). For example, non-cancerous blood disorders that might qualify for disability include:
- Hemolytic anemia,
- Disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis, and
- Bone marrow failure.
Malignant blood disorders include:
- Lymphoma,
- Leukemia, and
- Multiple myeloma.
If you have been diagnosed with any kind of blood disorder, including those listed above, contact a disability lawyer to discuss your disability benefit options.
How to Qualify for Disability Benefits
Eligibility for SSDI requires medical evidence. But there are other requirements as well, including:
- Work credits. You must have earned enough work credits based on age and work history.
- Definition of disability. You must meet Social Security’s definition of disability.
- Current ability to work. Can you train to do a different job?
Instead of assuming that you are not eligible, talk to an experienced disability lawyer today to find out how to apply for disability benefits. Your attorney can help you navigate the application process.
Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits?
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have the experience and ability to take on your case. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients throughout Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.