Diabetes is a disorder that prevents the body from properly regulating blood sugar. In the United States alone, diabetes affects more than 30 million people.
Symptoms of the disease vary, but in severe cases diabetics experience a litany of health problems, such as vision loss, heart disease, and kidney disease.
People with debilitating diabetes-related health issues often wonder if they’re eligible for social security disability benefits. The answer, of course, is it depends.
How diabetics can qualify for SSD
Unfortunately, diabetes by itself is not enough to qualify for disability benefits. Rather, applicants must demonstrate that the complications of the disease are so debilitating that they are left unable to work.
The Social Security Administration has a list of impairments that automatically qualify for SSD. The list includes several diabetes-related impairments, including:
- Diabetic Nephropathy: A disorder that prevents your kidneys from properly filtering waste. Treatment may require daily dialysis.
- Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathies: Nerve damage that may inhibit a person’s ability to walk and use their extremities with precision.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Excessive sugar in the blood stream can damage the eyes, leading to blindness.
If you’re unable to work because of health complications related to diabetes, you may qualify for social security disability benefits. These benefits can drastically improve your quality of life.
Navigating the SSD application process is difficult, and the way an application is structured can make the difference between approval and denial. A SSD lawyer can help guide you through the process, increasing the likelihood of approval and a more generous benefits package.
San Diego residents shouldn’t hesitate to reach out. If cost is a concern, many lawyers offer a free initial consultation at no out-of-pocket cost to the client.