Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits for Autoimmune Disorders
Are you considering applying for Social Security disability benefits for an autoimmune disorder?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better.
In this video, we will discuss Social Security disability benefits for autoimmune disorders.
Step One: Gather Comprehensive Medical Documentation
If you’re considering applying for Social Security disability benefits for autoimmune disorders, the first thing you may want to do is to gather comprehensive medical documentation.
You want to collect all relevant:
- Medical records
- Test results
- Imaging scans
- Treatment history related to your condition
This may include:
- Diagnostic tests
- Blood work
- Antibody analyses
- MRIs
- Detailed treatment plans from your doctors
The more thorough your medical evidence, the stronger your application may be.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits
Your autoimmune disorder must:
- Prevent you from working, and
- Be expected to last at least one year or result in death
Simply receiving a diagnosis is not enough—you need to demonstrate how your condition severely impacts your ability to perform work-related tasks.
Check If Your Condition Meets a Blue Book Listing
Before you apply, you may want to check to see if your condition meets a Blue Book listing.
You can review the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book of listings for immune system disorders—currently at Section 14—to see if your specific autoimmune disability is listed and whether your medical records may support such a finding.
Even if you don’t meet a listing exactly, the information that’s included in the listing can help you to guide your application.
What If You Don’t Meet a Blue Book Listing?
You may still qualify for disability benefits based on your residual functional capacity.
This can sometimes be made easier if your doctor is willing to complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form detailing:
- Your specific limitations, and
- Why they impact your ability to work
Be Prepared for a Lengthy Process
The application and review process for Social Security disability benefits can take 8 to 12 months just for the initial application review. We’re even seeing, in certain cases, that initial application review period extended.
Starting your application as soon as possible, providing all requested information promptly, and being patient gives you the best chances.
Consider Working with a Disability Attorney
Consider working with a disability attorney to help you navigate the process and potentially increase your ultimate chances of approval.
Remember to be thorough, honest, and persistent throughout the application process.
Providing clear evidence of how your autoimmune disorder impacts your daily life and ability to work is critical for a successful disability claim.
Thanks so much for watching!
If you’re disabled and unable to work, we’re here to help. Click this scheduling link or call us directly to schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and see how we can help you.
