Heart attacks are serious, and they can be disabling. If you’ve had a heart attack and now you can’t work because of it you can apply for Social Security disability benefits. Even though heart attacks can cause permanent disability they don’t automatically qualify you to receive Social Security disability benefits. You will still need to apply for disability benefits and go through the approval process.
How to Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits
In order to be automatically approved for Social Security disability benefits you must have a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowance list. When someone applies for Social Security disability benefits and they have a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowance list they just need to submit a doctor’s diagnosis of their condition and their application for benefits will be approved quickly.
Does A Heart Attack Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits?
Heart attacks are not on the Compassionate Allowance list so they don’t automatically qualify for benefits. That’s because some heart attacks are not as serious as other heart attacks. If you have had a heart attack that is disabling you may be approved for Social Security disability benefits as long as you meet the requirements that are listed in section 4.00 of the Blue Book. You must provide medical evidence showing you meet one of these requirements in order to be approved for disability benefits due to a heart attack:
- Narrowing of or blockage in the arteries
- Fatigue from exertion or exercise intolerance
OR
- At least three episodes in a 12-month period in which a blockage or narrowing of the arteries required surgical intervention (like an angioplasty or stint)
If your heart was severely damaged by the heart attack you may qualify under the Blue Book listing for heart failure instead of the listing for a heart attack. You will need to submit medical evidence like an MRI, X-rays, surgical records, and other medical records in order to prove that you are not able to work because of your heart attack.
If your claim for Social Security disability benefits is denied don’t get upset. Many people are denied disability benefits on their first try. You can file an appeal and update your application to show that you do meet the Social Security Administration’s requirements.
Don’t file a new claim if your claim is denied. Just update the claim you already submitted with more documentation to prove that you do meet the requirements and you are disabled by the heart attack you had.
Get Help With Your Claim
It’s a good idea to talk to a Social Security disability lawyer before you submit your claim. A Social Security disability benefits attorney can help you by answering your questions, helping you fill out the forms, and making sure that you include as much medical evidence as possible.
If your claim was denied on the first try, a Social Security disability lawyer may be able to help you go over your claim and make it stronger to give you a better chance of approval. Fill out a Free Case Evaluation today to get connected to an independent Social Security disability attorney who subscribes to the website and may be able to help with your case.
