What to Know about Claiming Disability with Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). With type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or resists insulin. This leads to impairments in a person’s metabolism. Complications caused by diabetes may inhibit a person’s ability to work. Examples of these complications include Hyperglycemia, Diabetic ketoacidosis, Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome, Chronic hyperglycemia, and Hypoglycemia.

To be eligible for disability benefits, someone with type 2 diabetes must provide evidence of diagnosis and symptoms from an acceptable medical source. Both medical and nonmedical evidence will be evaluated and considered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) when determining if someone qualifies for disability benefits. Learn what to know about claiming disability with type 2 diabetes by speaking with an experienced attorney at our firm.

How Type 2 Diabetes Qualifies for Disability Benefits

There are two types of disability benefits that a person living with type 2 diabetes may claim: Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Adults who have worked for a qualifying period and have been deemed disabled by SSA are eligible for SSDI benefits. Benefits begin after a full six months of disability, and after 24 months, a person is eligible for Medicare. Persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) will immediately qualify for these benefits.

SSI offers financial assistance to persons of any age who are disabled and have limited income or resources. State programs may augment SSI, and benefits will begin one month after the claim is filed. When a person receives SSI, they are immediately eligible for Medicaid in most states.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits

Click here to apply for disability benefits via the SSA website. If you would like to apply over the phone, you may call their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. If you want to speak in person, you may make an appointment at a local Social Security office.

When applying, be sure to have all important documents available, including:

• Social Security number and proof of age
• Any medical records related to the disability, such as test and lab results, medications, and medical professionals and organizations that have provided treatment
• Employment information
• Tax forms (e.g., W-2 form or a copy of a federal tax return if self-employed)

Original or certified copies from an issuing office should be used. These documents can be sent or taken to a Social Security office, where they will be photocopied and the original copies will be returned.

What to Do if Your Application is Denied

If an application for disability benefits is not accepted, you may appeal the decision. Appealing the decision may be done online or over the phone. The original decision letter provides the information regarding how to make an appeal. Be prepared to give further details on medical conditions and records that have been received since the first decision was made.

Speak to a Lawyer about Claims for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes may lead to serious health issues, making a person eligible for disability benefits. The two types of benefits are SSDI, for those with a work history, and SSI, which does not require prior work history. People may apply for disability benefits online, over the phone, or in person at their nearest Social Security office. Applicants will be required to present several documents, including Social Security number, proof of age, and medical records related to their illness. If an application is not accepted, it may be appealed and reviewed again. Reach out to our firm for more information on claiming disability with type 2 diabetes.