Frequently Asked Questions

What Conditions Qualify for Social Security Disability?  Many people considering applying for Social Security disability benefits have questions like, “What is considered a disability?” or “What conditions can I get Social Security disability for?” That’s not...

How Much Social Security Disability Back Pay Will I Get? You probably know that it can take a long time to get approved for Social Security disability. Depending on how many rounds of appeal are required, it may take a few months to three or four years or more to...

Why Does It Take So Long to Get Disability? SSD is intended to provide support for workers who can no longer earn a living due to an injury or medical condition. While these disability benefits can be a lifeline for someone who can’t continue working, timing presents...

Am I Eligible for SSD for Muscular Dystrophy? When you apply for Social Security disability benefits (SSD) for muscular dystrophy or any other condition, there are two possible ways to show that you are disabled. One is to show that your medical condition meets or...

Can I Receive SSD for Lyme Disease?       It is possible to receive Social Security disability (SSD) for Lyme disease. However, it’s not a given that a person suffering from the disease will qualify for disability. Pursuing disability for Lyme disease can be...

Watch Out for Social Security Disability Scams: How to Protect Yourself By:  Jennifer HC Walker, Senior Disability Advocate If you're applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) or have already submitted a claim, it’s important to be aware of scams that may target...

2025 Updates In Social Security: New Identity Proofing Requirements Social Security Changes Ahead Starting April 14, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is introducing changes to help protect your benefits from fraud. They will be increasing security with...

Can I Get SSDI for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) isn’t listed in the Social Security Blue Book. That means there’s no specific listing of symptoms or test results that qualifies a person with IBS for Social Security disability...

Can I Get Disability Benefits for Lupus?  “Lupus” is generally used as a shorthand for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). There are other forms of this condition, including three types of lupus of the skin, a type of lupus that is triggered by certain prescription...

Does Kidney Disease Qualify Me for SSDI?  Kidney disease, like most other medical conditions, may or may not qualify a person for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits. To qualify for SSDI benefits, an applicant must:  Have accrued sufficient work credits to...

Can I Get Disability for Cerebral Palsy?  The symptoms of cerebral palsy vary in type and severity. That means some people who suffer from cerebral palsy will qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits and some will not. This post provides general...

Do My Migraines Qualify Me for Disability Benefits? If you suffer from migraines, you know how debilitating they can be. While people unfamiliar with migraines may think of them as “just a headache,” migraine sufferers may experience symptoms such as:  Severe,...

Does Hashimoto’s Disease Qualify for Disability Benefits?  Any medical condition that prevents a person from engaging in substantial gainful activity for at least a year can potentially qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits. Hashimoto’s disease...

Will Having Hepatitis C Qualify Me for Disability?  Simply having a hepatitis C diagnosis won’t qualify you for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits. However, some people do qualify for SSDI due to hepatitis C.  Whether or not you are eligible for SSDI for...

Updates On The Social Security Fairness Act 2025 If you're a retired teacher, firefighter, police officer, or someone with a public pension, you may have heard about the new Social Security Fairness Act. While the law promises to increase benefits for millions, it...