No, neuropathy does not automatically qualify for disability benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes diabetic neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy as potentially disabling condition that can qualify for disability benefits.
If your neuropathy meets the criteria of a Blue Book listing, your claim will be approved, and you will be awarded disability benefits.
How To Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits
To automatically qualify for disability benefits with a medical condition, you must have a confirmed diagnosis of a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowances program (CAL) list.
These are conditions that are considered terminal, and that will result in the death of the claimant. This list includes Lou Gehrig’s Disease and different kinds of cancer as well as genetic conditions.
Does Neuropathy Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits?
As previously mentioned, neuropathy does not automatically qualify for disability benefits as it is not a life-threatening condition on the CAL list.
However, if you suffer from disabling neuropathy, you can still be approved for disability benefits. There are listings for neuropathy in the Blue Book.
To be approved per the Blue Book criteria, your neuropathy must meet at least one of two criteria. Neuropathy is evaluated under Section 11.14 of the Blue Book.
To have a claim approved, you must either have –
- Diminished motor function of at least two extremities resulting in extreme limitation in the ability to stand from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use of the upper extremities
Or, a marked limitation in physical functioning as well as one of the following:
- Understanding, remembering, or applying information
- Interacting with others
- Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace
- Adapting or managing oneself
To receive disability benefits, you must be unable to work for at least 12 consecutive months. You will need hard medical evidence to support your claim, including physician notes, test results, and so forth that can confirm you meet the criteria of the listing.
If your condition does not meet the listing criteria, you still may be approved using a medical vocational allowance. That approach takes your age, work history, transferrable skills, educational background, and other factors into consideration.
Your physician will need to complete a residual functional capacity (RFC) form, which details what you can and cannot do, clearly indicating any restrictions and limitations you have because of the neuropathy.
You will need a confirmed diagnosis, and you must provide the details of your treatment plan and how the condition affects your ability to perform daily tasks as well as work and earn a living.
Getting Help With Your Claim
If you are unable to work because of neuropathy, a Social Security Disability lawyer may be able to help with your claim and help you determine if you automatically qualify for disability benefits.
An attorney can help you gather supporting evidence and will know what documentation that you need to show that you meet the SSA definition of disabled.
Complete the form for a Free Case Evaluation today, so an attorney can help you determine the best way to proceed with a disability claim for neuropathy.
