Heart disease ranks as the number one cause of death in the United States. Figures from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show it claimed the lives of 695,547 people in 2021 alone. So, you might assume that you will automatically be entitled to claim Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) the moment you learn you have a heart problem. That is not how it works.
To qualify for SSDI, you must be unable to work for 12 months or more due to a qualifying condition. While heart conditions kill or do serious harm to many each year, medical interventions such as pacemakers, drugs and bypass operations allow many of those who suffer from a heart condition to continue in full-time employment for years to come. Some might have to change their line of work while others might need to reduce their hours, but both are better than being unable to work at all.
Some people can claim SSDI for heart-related conditions
With that said, if you believe your condition will prevent you from working for at least a year, check the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book to see if the agency lists the particular condition you have as a qualifying one. If it does, check to see that you meet the particulars outlined. If you cannot find your condition mentioned, check if “the book” covers it under some other subheading or context.
If you think you have the right to claim SSDI, it’s best to seek legal help to understand if your hopes are realistic and, if so, how to build a solid claim.