Which Skin Disorders Qualify for Disability Benefits?
Certain skin disorders can make life difficult to manage, let alone working a full-time job. This leaves many people wondering if they could qualify for disability benefits with a skin disorder. Finding out which skin disorders could qualify for disability benefits may help you decide whether you might be eligible for this type of financial assistance. An experienced Wilmington disability attorney can help you start this process.
SKIN DISORDERS COVERED BY DISABILITY BENEFITS
Only certain types of skin disorders are covered by disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The following skin disorders covered by disability benefits are listed in the SSA Blue Book of disabilities covered by their programs:
- Dermatitis
- Bullous disease
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Ichthyosis
- Genetic photosensitivity disorders
Dermatitis describes a condition that involves severe skin lesions that last at least three months or longer. Ichthyosis, bullous disease, and hidradenitis suppurativa are other skin lesion conditions that impact specific areas of the body. Lesions must continue despite treatment for someone to be considered for disability benefits.
Certain types of burn injuries may also qualify for disability benefits depending on the severity and duration. For example, burn injuries might be considered for disability benefits if they include skin lesions that are expected to last at least 12 months. Burns to certain areas of the body that limit movement or led to the loss of extremities may also be considered for benefits.
Genetic photosensitivity disorders must involve skin lesions that last at least 12 months or longer. However, those with this disorder that are unable to function outside of protective environments may also qualify for benefits. Feel free to contact a Wilmington disability lawyer if you have questions about whether your skin condition might qualify you for disability benefits.
DISABILITY BENEFITS ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Meeting the disability benefits eligibility criteria is still vital, even if you do have a severe skin disorder. If certain criteria are not met, then disability benefits might not be offered. These eligibility criteria include meeting the SSA definition of a disability, the past work or income requirements, disability severity, and the criteria specific to your disability.
The SSA defines a disability as a physical or mental condition that significantly interferes with daily or work activities. Unlike other programs, the SSA does not cover short-term or mild disabilities. Only severe disabilities that hinder work performance and are expected to last one year or longer are considered. Disabilities leading to premature death are one exception.
For work history, people must have enough work credits or make below a certain income each month. Lastly, there must be adequate medical evidence that the disability meets the criteria for the specific disability in the SSA Blue Book of disabilities.
DISABILITY ATTORNEY IN DELAWARE
You may not have to go through the complex disability benefits application process alone. Reach out to a Delaware disability lawyer to figure out whether you could be eligible for disability benefits. Start by contacting Edelstein Martin & Nelson by dialing (302) 295-5050 for a free consultation today about your disability. Our team of attorneys can help you increase your chances of receiving disability benefits.