Luisa worried about her husband, Barry, as his kidney disease worsened. Her primary concern was keeping him as healthy as possible. However, she still had to worry about how they would support themselves if he was no longer able to work. She knew the government had disability programs to help in situations like this. However, she thought disability benefits were only paid to people who were completely unable to function. Luisa wondered if kidney diseases qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. That’s what we will look at in this article.
A Few Facts About Kidneys
Most of us are born with two kidneys. These small bean-shaped organs filter waste, toxins, and extra water from your body. In addition, they promote the healthy functioning of the rest of your body by keeping a health balance of water, salts and minerals.
Acute kidney injury can cause a sudden, usually temporary loss of kidney function. However, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is far more serious and can lead to end-stage kidney disease, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
ESRD typically means kidney failure that requires dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant for the patient to survive. This can lead to major disruptions in life and work.
But is kidney disease considered a disabling condition?
Disability Requirements, Generally
To receive SSDI, a medical condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For example:
- You must be unable to continue working at your current job;
- You must not be able to do a different type of work unhindered by your disability; and
- Your disability has lasted one year, is expected to last for one year or is expected to be your cause of death.
Applying this standard to someone with kidney disease determines whether the person’s medical condition is a disability covered by SSDI.
In addition, SSDI applicants must have accumulated enough work credits to receive SSDI payments. These credits are earned
How Kidney Diseases Qualify for SSDI
The SSA maintains a list of impairments that might be considered disabilities. Kidney disease is listed under 6.00 Genitourinary Disorders.
To receive SSDI, someone with kidney disease must be able to prove their condition prevents or severely restricts them from working. The SSA will review the applicant’s medical records to make its decision.
Find Out if Your Kidney Disease Qualifies for SSDI
Get the help of an experienced Social Security attorney. The Social Security Disability Insurance application process can be long and frustrating. You need someone on your side who understands the system.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have helped many clients receive the disability benefits they deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
