Are you struggling to work because of asthma and wondering if you could qualify for disability benefits? You might have questions about whether your condition is “bad enough” or if your records will convince Social Security.
When navigating a complex Social Security disability claim, an attorney can explain your best chances for receiving asthma disability benefits. An experienced Social Security lawyer can explain your options, collect strong medical evidence, and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Is Asthma Considered a Disability?
Is asthma a disability? Yes, asthma can count as a disability according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA looks at how often your asthma attacks happen, how severe they are, and whether your asthma symptoms limit your ability to work to determine whether it qualifies as disabling.
You must demonstrate that your asthma significantly interferes with your ability to perform basic tasks or prevents you from holding a job. Simply having an asthma diagnosis isn’t enough to receive Social Security benefits. You need strong medical proof that your asthma seriously interferes with your breathing, even when you follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan.
Can You Get SSI for Asthma?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are monthly payments for individuals with limited income and few resources who are unable to work due to age or a qualifying medical condition. You can qualify for SSI for asthma if your condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability. You must also meet the financial requirements to be eligible for SSI. If your asthma causes serious limitations and prevents you from working full-time, you could receive SSI, especially if you haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI.
Can You Get SSDI for Asthma?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. You could receive SSDI benefits for asthma if your symptoms keep you from doing any full-time job. The SSA will consider your past work history, the duration of your employment, and the severity of your asthma to determine your eligibility. You must also have enough work credits to collect SSDI payments. If your asthma causes frequent flare-ups or lands you in the hospital due to difficulty breathing, you could be eligible for SSDI benefits.
How the SSA Evaluates Asthma
The SSA will evaluate your asthma to determine if it meets the criteria outlined in Section 3.03 of its Listing of Impairments, also known as the Blue Book. You must show proof of at least three hospital stays in a year, each of which was 30 days apart or more and lasted at least 48 hours. You also need test results showing how much the asthma impairs your breathing. The SSA uses lung function tests, such as spirometry, to determine if you qualify. If your numbers fall below a certain level and you have had enough hospital visits to qualify, you could receive Social Security disability benefits for asthma.
You May Still Be Approved If You Don’t Meet the Stringent Criteria for Disability Benefits
You can still qualify for disability benefits even if your asthma doesn’t meet the exact specifications in the SSA’s Blue Book. The SSA might approve your claim if your condition prevents you from working full-time and significantly impacts your daily life, energy, and breathing. A lawyer can gather clear evidence, such as medical records, work history documentation, and expert opinions from qualified medical professionals. They can also explain how your asthma keeps you from holding a steady job and why you should receive benefits.
Contact the SSDI/SSI Lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons Today
Contact Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons today for a free consultation to speak with an experienced disability lawyer about your case. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explain what you can expect.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
