Questions About Qualifying for Social Security/Disability?
By Deanna Power, Community Outreach Manager, Social Security Disability Help
Social Security Disability Benefits for Adults with Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease. Patients with CF have a higher risk of lung infections because the genetic abnormality causes thick mucus in the lungs to trap bacteria.
Patients with Cystic Fibrosis are often unable to work due to their condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two government programs that provide financial assistance to individuals who are disabled due to CF.
What Type of Social Security Disability Benefits Can I Receive if I Have Cystic Fibrosis?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide adults who are disabled with monthly financial support. Both programs require that the individual meet or exceed the definition of “disabled” as defined by the SSA; however, SSDI is based on your work record and SSI is a “needs-based” program.
The SSA considers you disabled if you are unable to perform a substantial gainful activity (unable to work) due to a physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death, has lasted for at least 12 months, or is expected to last for at least 12 months.
Financial Requirements for Social Security Disability Benefits
In order to qualify for SSDI, you must meet the requirements of a metric known as “Work Credits,” which measure how much you’ve contributed in taxes as an adult. The number of years you must work is based on the age you become disabled. Younger applicants are not expected to have worked as much as a 60-year-old applicant.
On the other hand, SSI is a need-based program that does not require the applicant to have worked in the past. However, SSI does have a financial requirement. The individual cannot receive “countable income” in excess of the current maximum monthly amount to be eligible for SSI, which is $733 per month in 2015. An applicant cannot have assets valued over $2,000, which include a second home or second car, cash, or life insurance.
Physical Requirements for Social Security Disability Benefits
The SSA’s Blue Book lists physical and mental conditions that may meet or exceed Social Security’s definition of disability. The list of impairments provides specific criteria that must be met before an adult with Cystic Fibrosis can collect disability benefits.
The criteria for Cystic Fibrosis are found in section 3.04 of the Blue Book. A patient with Cystic Fibrosis must meet one of the following criteria:
· Have a forced expiratory volume (FEV) that is equal of less than a specific value based on the individual’s height and weight; or,
· Have episodes of bronchitis, pneumonia, hemoptysis, or respiratory failure that require hospitalization or treatment by a medical professional at least once every two months or at least six times a year. If the patient is hospitalized for more than 24 hours, the occurrence counts as two episodes. The patient must be evaluated for at least 12 months under this criteria; or,
· Have persistent pulmonary infection with superimposed, recurrent, symptomatic episodes of increased bacterial infection at least once every six months that requires nebulization or intravenous antimicrobial therapy.
How Do I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?
Adults can complete an application for SSD online (SSI applications must be completed in person), by calling the SSA’s toll-free number 1-800-772-1213, or by contacting their local Social Security Office.
For more information about applying for Social Security disability benefits, you can refer to the SSA’s Disability Planner available online.
