Understanding Cirrhosis of the Liver as a Disability: Eligibility and How to Apply

Individuals diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits under certain conditions.

Cirrhosis is a serious, progressive disease characterized by extensive liver scarring that impairs normal liver function.

This condition can arise from multiple causes, including chronic alcohol abuse, hepatitis infections, and fatty liver disease.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes cirrhosis as a potential disability if specific medical and functional criteria are met.

This guide will help you understand whether you qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits due to cirrhosis and outline the steps needed to apply.

Is Cirrhosis Considered a Disability by SSA?

The SSA classifies cirrhosis as a disability when the following conditions are satisfied:

• The illness is chronic, persisting for more than six months.
• Comprehensive medical documentation is available, including treatment records and diagnostic tests such as:
  • Liver function tests
  • MRI scans of the liver
  • CT scans of the abdomen
  • X-rays of the abdomen
  • Ultrasound imaging of the abdomen
• Your laboratory results and response to treatment align with SSA’s disability criteria.

Does a Cirrhosis Diagnosis Automatically Qualify You for Social Security Benefits?

A diagnosis alone does not guarantee SSDI or SSI benefits. Beyond meeting medical disability standards, applicants must prove they cannot perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

SGA is defined by the SSA as work involving significant physical or mental tasks, typically done for pay or profit, regardless of whether profit is realized.

Both SSDI and SSI have distinct eligibility requirements beyond the medical diagnosis. Below is an overview of these differences:

SSDI Eligibility Criteria

SSDI is intended for individuals who have earned sufficient work credits through paying Social Security taxes over time.

The required work history varies depending on the applicant’s age at disability onset and changes annually.

Additional SSDI requirements include:

• The disability must be total and expected to last at least one year or result in death.
• The individual cannot perform previous work or adjust to other employment due to their condition.

SSI Eligibility Criteria

SSI benefits target individuals (adults and children) with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

Adult applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens or qualified noncitizens.
• Be at least 65 years old or have a qualifying disability or blindness.
• Have income and assets below specified limits.
• Reside in one of the 50 states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands.

For children under 18, eligibility requires:

• A severe physical or mental condition that significantly limits daily activities.
• The condition must have lasted or be expected to last at least one year or result in death.
• The child must live in a household with limited income and resources.

How to Apply for Social Security Benefits if You Have Cirrhosis

To apply for SSDI or SSI benefits, you can:

• Submit an application online via the SSA website.
• Call the SSA at 800-772-1213 to apply by phone.
• Visit your local Social Security office in person.

Ensure your application includes detailed and accurate information about your medical condition, treatments, and work history. The SSA may request additional medical records from your healthcare providers to support your claim.

Key Takeaways

Cirrhosis can qualify as a disabling condition under SSA guidelines, making you potentially eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits.

Before applying, verify that you meet the specific medical and financial eligibility requirements for these programs. If uncertain, consult with your local Social Security office or seek legal advice.

Once eligibility is confirmed, apply online or by phone, providing comprehensive and truthful information about your health and employment background.

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