Diabetes occurs when a person’s blood sugar is too high. When a person’s body doesn’t produce enough insulin, they have Type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can occur because a person’s body doesn’t make or use insulin efficiently. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are paid to qualified disabled persons, but not all diabetics can qualify.
When is Diabetes Considered a Disability?
According to the American Diabetes Association, both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are protected disabilities under most laws. In fact, under federal law diabetes is defined as a disability because:
- Diabetes substantially limits an important system in the body – the endocrine system.
- It can be an “invisible” disability that people may have for some time before their diagnosis.
Even when a diabetic person is healthy and managing well, diabetes is still classified as a disability.
What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?
This benefit is also known as SSD or SSDI. People who have worked and paid social security taxes may be eligible for benefits if they become permanent disabled. Eligibility is determined based on the number of work credits you’ve accumulated in a certain time period, your current income, and the age at which you became disabled.
Adults may receive Social Security benefits if they are unable to work because of any physical or mental impairment that is expected to last a year or cause death within a year. People with diabetes can live full, active lives. But when the diabetes prevents them from working, it may be time to apply for Social Security benefits.
Does Social Security Disability Insurance Pay Out for Diabetes?
Yes, under certain circumstances, people with diabetes can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Someone with a recognized disability that prevents them from working for a least a year or could reasonably cause their death within a year may receive benefits.
Medical reports from family doctors and specialists can support a claim for SSDI benefits. Others who know the limitations caused by your disability can also provide supporting evidence. Proof of income may be necessary, as well as an accounting of your property. Income limitations change yearly. At the time of this writing, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. However, not everything you own will count toward that resource limit.
Learn More About Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
The application process can be long and frustrating, so you need someone on your side. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have more than 50 years’ experience. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100 or use our Contact Form. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
