Is Lupus Considered a Disability Under Social Security?
Systemic lupus erythematosus, also known simply as lupus or SLE, is a chronic inflammatory immune system disorder. It can attack many different parts of the body, most often the skin, joints, the blood and the kidneys. People with lupus experience cycles of flares and remissions, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
While lupus is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA), those who qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits often receive approval by meeting the criteria under other listed impairments. Eligibility for SSD for lupus requires evidence of:
1. Involvement of two or more organs/body systems with:
- Moderate severity in at least one organ or body system (lungs, heart/circulatory system, kidneys, blood, skin, central nervous system, immune system or the brain), and
- At least two of constitutional symptoms or signs (severe fatigue, fever, malaise or involuntary weight loss)
OR
2. Repeated manifestations of lupus, with at least two constitutional symptoms and at least one of the following:
- Limitations of activities of daily living
- Limitation in maintaining social functioning
- Limitation in completing tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence or pace
Many symptoms of lupus/SLE are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, blood disorders, kidney disease and other illnesses. Our attorneys know how to highlight the distinct symptoms of lupus that will give you the best chance of winning your disability benefits.
We work closely with clients to document constitutional symptoms and other telltale signs such as joint pain and inflammation, fever, fatigue, chest pain, characteristic rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, low red cell counts and hair loss. Our SSD benefits lawyers are also skilled at demonstrating how these conditions interfere with sustained employment.
Let Our Legal Team Help You With Your Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Claim
The proven team at Schwartzapfel Partners P.C. understands how lupus can affect every part of your body and many facets of your life. We understand why you cannot keep steady employment, and we are skilled at convincing the SSA of the same.
Our focused representation in this specialized area of the law translates to a high rate of success in appeals of denied claims.* Call our New York law office to learn more in your free consultation.
You Pay No Attorneys Fees Unless We Win. Call Us Today.
To learn more about seeking Social Security Disability benefits for lupus, call 888-801-1914 or contact our New York law firm online. There is no upfront cost to you for our representation. We get paid only if we win money and benefits for you.
*Past results do not guarantee a future outcome.
