Social Security Disability & Diabetes

According to the University of California San Diego Medical Center, 21 million Americans suffer from diabetes. Most are able to lead perfectly normal lives, meaning that they do not qualify for Social Security disability benefits. However, there are specific cases for which they may receive it.

Evidence of neuropathy

• In the event that you suffer damage to your extremities (arms or legs) you may qualify for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) based on this.

Acidosis

• Acidosis (excessive acid in the body fluids) associated with diabetes is also listed as a reason for claiming disability under SSI. To make this claim, symptoms must occur at least once every two months.

Retinopathy

• If you suffer with severe visual impairment from diabetes, such that your eyes have been damaged to the point of near blindness, you may be able to qualify for SSI.

Most do not qualify

• While in theory, extremity damage, acidosis and vision impairment are considered diabetic problems that will grant the right to SSI, the reality is that few people actually qualify based on diabetes.

Ways to qualify

• If you suffer from one of the conditions listed, you may qualify for SSI based on the individual sections of the SSI rules. However, you will likely need to apply based on those conditions directly and not on diabetes.