Learn about SSDI for long COVID, including eligibility requirements, symptoms that may qualify, and how to apply for disability benefits with experienced legal guidance.
Living with long COVID can be overwhelming. Many people who continue to experience lasting symptoms months after infection find themselves unable to work or maintain their usual routines. If you are in this situation, you may be wondering whether you can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Applying for disability benefits for long COVID can help you secure financial stability while managing ongoing health challenges and treatment.
This guide explains what long COVID is, how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates disability claims, and what steps you can take if you are considering an SSDI application.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID refers to a variety of symptoms that linger for weeks or months after the initial infection. Common symptoms include:
- Chronic fatigue and weakness
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Breathing difficulties
- Chest pain or heart complications
- Joint or muscle pain
- Headaches and dizziness
Because long COVID symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, many individuals struggle to perform consistent work tasks. SSDI for long COVID symptoms can offer crucial support for those dealing with persistent fatigue, brain fog, or respiratory difficulties that prevent regular employment.
SSDI and Long COVID Eligibility
Understanding long COVID SSDI eligibility is crucial for determining whether your symptoms meet Social Security’s strict disability requirements. The SSA does not currently list long COVID as a standalone qualifying condition. Instead, eligibility is based on whether your symptoms prevent you from working and are expected to last for at least 12 months. To qualify for SSDI for long COVID, applicants must show:
- Documented medical evidence – Records from doctors, specialists, test results, and ongoing treatment notes.
- Functional limitations – Proof that symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, or breathing issues limit your ability to perform job duties.
- Impact on daily life – Statements from employers, coworkers, or family members about how symptoms affect your ability to work or manage daily tasks.
Applying for SSDI with Long COVID
When applying for SSDI for long COVID, it is vital to build a strong case. Consider the following steps:
- Work with your medical providers to gather complete records of your symptoms and treatments.
- Keep a personal log of how symptoms affect your daily life and work abilities.
- Provide detailed reports from specialists, such as pulmonologists, cardiologists, or neurologists, if your long COVID symptoms involve those areas.
- Consider working with a Social Security Disability attorney to guide you through the process.
How Culbertson, Jacobs & Laboda Can Help
The SSDI process is often complex and frustrating, especially when dealing with an emerging condition like long COVID. At Culbertson, Jacobs & Laboda, our attorneys help clients build strong cases by:
- Reviewing your medical records and identifying gaps that may require additional testing or documentation.
- Gathering evidence and supporting statements to demonstrate the impact of long COVID on your ability to work.
- Guiding you through appeals if your initial application has been denied.
- Providing ongoing support so you feel informed and confident at every stage of the process.
We understand how difficult it is to live with long COVID while also managing the SSDI system. Our goal is to help you pursue the benefits you need to support yourself and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About SSDI for Long COVID
Can I get SSDI for long COVID if my symptoms come and go?
Yes, but you will need to show that your symptoms create consistent functional limitations that prevent you from maintaining full-time work.
Do I need a positive COVID-19 test to qualify?
While a positive test can help, it is not always required. The SSA looks more closely at your medical evidence, ongoing symptoms, and how those symptoms affect your ability to work.
What if my initial SSDI claim for long COVID is denied?
Many claims are denied at first. An attorney can help you file an appeal, strengthen your evidence, and improve your chances of success.
Final Thoughts
Applying for SSDI for long COVID can feel like an uphill battle, but you do not need to go through it alone. By having the proper documentation and legal advice, you can enhance your case and improve your chances of getting approved.
If you are living with long COVID and struggling to work, contact us today to schedule a consultation.