Can you claim asthma for ssd?
Asthma is increasingly common, in the U.S. and around the world. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 27 million Americans have asthma. Not everyone who suffers from this condition is disabled. However, the condition can limit your ability to work, and even to attend to other areas of life. Whether or not asthma qualifies you for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits depends in large part on the severity of your symptoms and the limitations they create. In some circumstances, other factors may be considered.
Asthma as a Disability
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic medical condition that narrows the airways through inflammation. The condition can also cause excess mucus in the airways, and muscle constriction. Each of these can decrease the space for air to pass through, making it difficult to breathe. In some people, this condition is relatively minor and can be treated effectively with medication. But the symptoms of asthma can be serious, and even life threatening.
When Is Asthma Disability?
Asthma is listed in the Social Security Blue Book. The listing criteria are technical. To qualify based on the listing requires:
- That the applicant have an FEV1 value at or below a specific level. The cut-off level varies based on the applicant’s age, sex, and height. The measurement must be from the same 12-month period as the hospitalizations required by part B.
- The applicant must have suffered exacerbations or complications requiring hospitalization within a 12-month period. The hospitalizations must have been at least 30 days apart, and of at least 48 hours in duration.
Note that the symptoms and severity of this condition and response to treatment may vary over time. So, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may re-evaluate to determine whether a person receiving SSD benefits for asthma is still disabled.
If you don’t meet the listing criteria, it may still be possible to secure SSD benefits. The process is a bit more complex, and takes into account factors such as your age, educational level, and past work experience. For example, if you are an older worker whose work experience is limited to high-exertion physical labor, you will be more likely to be found to be disabled than if you are a 30-year-old accountant or officer manager.
Get Help with Your SSD Claim for Asthma
Most SSD claims are initially denied. Ensuring that you complete your application fully and accurately and the right type and amount of documentation can make a big difference. Our experienced disability benefits advocates know the process inside out, and have a solid understanding of what the SSA is looking for. To learn more about how we can help with your SSD application or appeal, call 800-800-3332 right now or fill out our contact form.
