Suffering from heart conditions or other forms of cardiovascular disease can make an individual unable to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows individuals with severe cardiovascular disease that impacts their ability to work to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, tackling the application process alone can be challenging. That’s where contacting a Social Security disability lawyer can be instrumental.
Qualifying for SSDI Benefits with Cardiovascular Impairments
To qualify for SSDI benefits, the condition must be expected to last over 12 months. Symptoms should also be severe enough to make you unable to do your previous job. A cardiovascular impairment is broadly defined as any disorder affecting the heart or circulatory system. This includes congenital or acquired disorders.
The SSA Blue Book lists conditions such as:
Chronic heart failure – Chronic heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is diagnosed after tests are given to measure the flow of blood from your heart. Your heart needs to be performing at 30 percent capacity to qualify as fully disabled. Also, you need to show that your heart problem causes you pain, even while not exerting energy. This type of heart failure can arise from cardiomyopathy, including dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Ischemic heart disease – This is a pre-heart attack condition which is caused by problems with your arteries. Individuals with this condition have poor oxygen flow within their bloodstream. This condition is typically diagnosed as a result of a significantly poor stress test or angiography.
- Hypertensive Heart Disease – In order to qualify for Social Security Disability, your hypertension must be so significant that you would also have to meet the criteria for disability from other heart issues such as ischemic heart disease or chronic heart failure.
- Heart Transplant – The SSA considers a heart transplant a disability one year following the surgery. The SSA will also evaluate residual impairment under its proper listing.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency – You may be qualified if your heart with chronic venous insufficiency is unable to pump blood from the legs back to the heart. This condition generally results in swelling, difficulty standing, and ulcers. To qualify for Social Security Disability with chronic venous insufficiency, you need to have ulcers that don’t clear up in three months or less.
- Recurrent Arrhythmias – Recurrent Arrhythmia causes your heartbeat to be irregular; to race; or to beat slowly. To qualify for Social Security Disability due to this condition, you must demonstrate that your condition causes you to often pass out or have frequent spells in which you come close to fainting.
Heart Disease and Disability Benefits
If your specific condition isn’t listed, you’ll need to present evidence that follows the limitations in the SSA Blue Book listing for another cardiovascular disease. Proper medical evidence, copies of diagnostic tests, and specialist opinions are essential for qualification. A Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment detailing how symptoms prevent your work is also necessary.
Notably, having a pacemaker doesn’t guarantee disability status. While having a pacemaker may restrict certain tasks, individuals with a pacemaker might still be considered capable of sedentary or light-duty work based on their skills or education.
Age Considerations and Benefits
The risk of heart problems increases with age, affecting many SSDI applicants. Those aged 50 to 54 are seen as approaching advanced age, gaining a more favorable application evaluation. Individuals aged 55 or older receive the most favorable assessment. However, upon reaching full retirement benefits eligibility, regular Social Security payments replace SSDI benefits.
The Importance of Legal Representation
While not mandatory, hiring an attorney for SSDI applications offers numerous benefits. An experienced attorney helps confirm sufficient medical evidence, handles paperwork, and represents you during appeals if needed. Contrary to common belief, legal assistance is affordable, with fees regulated by the SSA and paid from approved benefits.
Seeking Assistance for SSDI Benefits
At Liner Legal, we recommend working with an experienced Social Security disability attorney for improved approval chances. Contact us online via linerlegal.com or call our office, (216) 282-1773 for a free consultation. Liner Legal serves clients nationwide, and our physical offices are conveniently located throughout Ohio, including Akron, Canton, Cleveland, Columbus, Sandusky, Warren, and Youngstown.
