Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits When You Suffer From Anemia

If you are suffering from anemia, you may know it even before getting a diagnosis. The symptoms from this condition can be severe. Anemia occurs when your blood does not have enough red blood cells. These cells are crucial to your health because they transport oxygen to the organs throughout the body. When the body does not get enough oxygen, victims may feel tired, appear pale, have low stamina, have a racing heart, be short of breath, lose hair, or have a general feeling of not being well. Fortunately, some victims may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits Due to Anemia

Individuals suffering from anemia may be unable to work, and therefore unable to support themselves. To qualify for disability benefits, an applicant must show that he meets the criteria for the impairment listed by the Social Security Administration or he must show that he is unable to return to work because the anemia is so limiting.

To qualify based on the criteria outlined by the Social Security Administration under its anemia listing, the applicant must show the following:

1. The red blood cells in the blood are persistently at least 30 percent or less.
2. He needs at least one blood transfusion every two months.

In the alternative, anemia sufferers can qualify for Social Security disability benefits under a listing for an impairment that is caused by anemia, or by qualifying based on a condition that caused the anemia. Examples include the following:

1. A cardiovascular listing due to increases in heart problems.
2. A respiratory listing due to difficulties with breathing.
3. An advanced kidney disease that is causing the anemia.

Even if you don’t qualify in either of the ways described above, you may still qualify for Social Security disability benefits if you are unable to return to work due to a reduced physical capacity. In order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits due to your inability to work, you would have to demonstrate your limitations on a Residual Functional Capacity form.

Your Social Security Disability Application May be Fast Tracked If You Have Aplastic Anemia

In 2012, the Social Security Administration (SSA) added aplastic anemia to the list of Compassionate Allowance conditions that may be fast tracked for Social Security disability approval. The conditions included on the Compassionate Allowance list, by definition, meet the qualifications for Social Security disability approval.

There is no special form or application process for your Social Security disability application even though your condition is on the Compassionate Allowance list. You still need to provide medical documentation and other information as required on the Social Security disability application. However, because of your condition you may expect a decision from the SSA in a few weeks rather than in a few months.

If you have anemia, it is important to take action and to make sure that your Social Security disability application is complete before you submit it for approval. If you would like help getting the benefits you deserve, we encourage you to start a free chat with us now.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

CONNECT WITH ME