Chronic liver disease is not an actual disease itself, but rather an entire category of diseases. It encompasses hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis, hepatoma, liver cancer, liver failure, alcoholic liver disease, and more. Symptoms may include, fatigue, mental confusion, jaundice, swelling and diarrhea.
Individuals suffering from liver disease may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits if they meet a number of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) requirements.
Qualifying for Benefits
While chronic liver disease is listed in the Social Security Listing of Impairments, or Blue Book, a person must be anticipated to suffer from the disease for a minimum of one year and must earn less than $1,130 per month.
In order to determine if your condition meets the qualifications listed in the Blue Book, you must have been diagnosed by your physician with either chronic or end-stage liver disease with at least one of the following complications:
- Hepatopulmonary syndrome
- Hepatic encephalopathy
- Ascites or hydrothorax
- Gastrointestinal or esophageal hemorrhage
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, request your doctor review the SSA listing form. Even if you do not automatically qualify for disability benefits because you do not meet this listing’s requirements, the SSA will also examine your work limitations to discover what, if any, work you can perform.
The administration will use a residual functional capacity assessment to determine if your condition prevents you from working. It may determine you are capable of some types of work but not others, or that you unable to work and qualify for benefits.
If you need to file an appeal or apply for SSD benefits for chronic liver disease, it is imperative you have the appropriate documentation to accompany your application. Because the process can be overwhelming, an experienced disability attorney can be a helpful asset and increase your chances of receiving benefits.
Get started today with the Phoenix disability advocates at Dayes Law Firm PC. We offer a free review of your claim and do not get paid unless you do.
Call 1-800-503-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.