Long-Term Covid Symptoms – Disability Benefits: Could You Be Eligible - Slepian Ellexson, PLLC

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Long-Term Covid Symptoms – Disability Benefits: Could You Be Eligible

Published on December 17th, 2021 by Eric Slepian

COVID-19 is a complex virus, as some who have it can be asymptomatic, while some may experience long-term health effects. If you have lingering side effects, chances are you’re experiencing what’s known as long covid. Long-term health effects that have been reported include memory problems, issues with breathing and shortness of breath, muscle weakness, chest pain, fatigue, and more.

This may leave many wondering: can you apply for SSDI benefits due to coronavirus-related symptoms?

Definition of Disability

According to the Social Security Administration, a disability is “the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

If a coronavirus side effect fits these qualifications, then with the right representation and guidance, you certainly have a shot at applying for disability benefits.

What to Apply Under

There is no “coronavirus” listing in the Blue Book, which is the comprehensive guide for all the criteria of different diseases and disorders. However, you can work with your doctors and a social security lawyer to match your symptoms with a certain listing. Some relevant ones may include respiratory illnesses, heart conditions, or another relevant disorder.

Apply as Early as Possible

Applying for disability benefits as early as possible will give you a higher chance of winning your case. Given that it can be a long and timely process to get approved, lawyer up and build your case to win benefits for your COVID-19 disabilities sooner rather than later.

Record Your Symptoms

Having sufficient medical evidence is vital when applying for social security. Since COVID can have a more vague set of symptoms and greatly vary for each person, it’s extra important to document your symptoms and how they impact your ability to work and daily life. Proving how your COVID-19 symptoms affect you will take extra detail. Make sure you seek medical care and share all issues with your doctor so they can document them as well.

Pay Attention to Financial Restrictions

Aside from medical qualifications you must meet to qualify for SSDI, there are also financial ones. Firstly, you must have paid all FICA taxes for at least 10 years to be eligible. You must also be below a certain income threshold, also known as substantial gainful activity.

Contact Us Today

Applying for social security disability benefits can be confusing, especially when it’s for a not-well-defined disorder such as COVID-19. However, we understand that if you were infected with the virus, you may truly be incapable of working and in a tough spot.

If you want to learn more about if you’re eligible for benefits and start the application or appeals process, we encourage you to contact our team. Our Social Security Disability Attorneys in Tucson, AZ look forward to assisting you.

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