Diabetes is now an epidemic among Americans. The causes for its rapid spread include excessive body weight, less physical activity, a bad diet, and other unhealthy lifestyle factors. It’s difficult to qualify for disability benefits using the Social Security Administration’s program because diabetes is such a common illness.
The Blue Book of the SSA doesn’t mention either type 1 or 2 diabetes. Even so, if you meet certain criteria, you may be eligible for disability payments due to diabetes under limited circumstances that prohibit you from working.
When individuals with diabetes hear this, they often have a lot of questions about how they can get disability for diabetes. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the illness, including those related to disability.
Is diabetes recognized as a disability by the Social Security Administration and can it qualify for benefits?
At first glance, the answer is no. Diabetes is considered an “invisible” disability. The Blue Book of the SSA does not include type 1 and type 2 diabetes as a disability. However, suppose you are a diabetic patient with additional health problems linked to diabetes, you may have a chance to apply for disability compensation.
As diabetes cannot be solely considered a disability, it can still be a disability with several side effects, such as loss of vision, end stage renal disease, and more. Uncontrolled diabetes can leave a person experiencing various other health problems; this affects a person’s ability to perform any work. Therefore, diabetes cannot help you in getting disability benefits, but it can be established as a disability combined with extreme side effects, making it impossible for you to work.
As a result, if your diabetes has caused multiple additional health problems that have made you disabled, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits.
Can I get disability benefits as a diabetic patient with related disabilities if I do not follow doctor’s recommendations?
SSA is very strict with its rules. If you have diabetes and acquired disabilities as a result of your condition, you may be eligible for disability benefits. However, if you are found to be disregarding your treatments or missing a doctor’s appointment or medicine prescription, your case will be rejected.
Do you have to tell your employer if you have diabetes?
It is not required by law, but it is typically recommended. While you share these details with your employer, they are aware of your health issues and can be called on if necessary. If you’re a diabetic patient who needs to take a sick day because you’re not feeling well, for example, your employer may consider your recurring medical issue and grant you the time off.
How to qualify for Disability for Diabetes?
Getting a disability for diabetes is possible if you have uncontrolled diabetes and your health condition is severe, which can bring in other disabilities as a side effect. You may file for disability benefits if your condition has prevented you from working for the last 12 months or if you are expecting that the same condition will prevent you from working for the next 12 months.
However, even if your physical condition is severe due to diabetes, you may not receive disability benefits. Your case will likely be rejected if your health issue is caused by inattentiveness to a doctor’s prescription.
How to file for social security benefits with diabetes?
You may either go to your nearest Social Security Office, or book an appointment over the phone. However, the easiest way to apply for disability is through the SSA website. Applying online may be more convenient and comfortable.
You should make sure you have all of the necessary documents in advance before submitting an application. Visit a website to contact a disability attorney for legal help.
