Sleep Problems: Can You Be Approved For SSDI?
Being sleepy at work might not be as simple as exhaustion from staying up late to binge a show. Some people have recurring sleep problems that rob them of their memory, cognitive functions, and more. Suffering from sleep problems inevitably affects job performance too, making it nearly impossible for some to do their jobs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) may cover certain sleep disorders if the requirements are met. Read on and find out more.
Diagnosing Sleep Problems
Many people probably have sleep disorders but don't know it. Unfortunately, not being able to breathe correctly while sleeping and having other sleep problems can impact your concentration, alertness, decision-making, and more. If not treated, it can affect your heart and more. If you suffer from a sleep disorder, seek medical help. Get a confirmed diagnosis, which often calls for a sleep study. Once you have a confirmed diagnosis, consider how your disorder is affecting your job. If you are unable to control your sleep disorder using treatments recommended by your doctor and doing your job is becoming increasingly impossible, you might need to stop working and file for SSDI benefits.
Understanding SSDI Requirements
You must have enough time working and earning income to be approved for SSDI benefits. You should check your status to ensure you have sufficient time and income before quitting your job. This can be checked online or by calling the SSA. Most Social Security offices remain closed currently due to the pandemic. If you do not have enough work history to be eligible for SSDI, you could try applying for SSI (Supplemental Security Income), which has no work requirements.
The other part of being approved is tougher because you must show that your sleep disorder keeps you from working and earning income. This determination compares your job responsibilities with the symptoms of your sleep disorder to see if they negatively affect each other. In most cases, nearly every type of job you can imagine requires you to use your cognitive functions to do work, follow directions, remember facts, and more.
In some cases, those with legitimate disabilities are turned down for benefits. You can plead your case at an appeal hearing but it can still be difficult to convince the hearing officer of your need for benefits. You can also speak to a Social Security law firm such as Attorney John B. Martin Law Offices to get help with your appeal for benefits. Lawyers practicing Social Security law know how to help applicants get the benefits they need because of their sleep disorders. Speak to one today
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