Living with a chronic illness can turn everyday tasks into big challenges. From getting out of bed to keeping a job, life can feel harder than it should. If your illness keeps you from working, you might be wondering if you can get Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI.
This process can feel confusing and stressful. But you are not alone. At our disability law firm, we help people with long-term health issues get the support they need. In this guide, we’ll explain what SSDI is, how it helps people with chronic illness, and what steps to take if you’re thinking about applying.
What Is SSDI?
SSDI stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. It’s a program run by the federal government that helps people who can’t work due to a serious medical condition. If you’ve worked and paid Social Security taxes, you’ve been paying into SSDI.
If you qualify, SSDI gives you a monthly check to help cover living costs. It also opens the door to Medicare health coverage, even if you’re not yet 65.
Can I Get SSDI for a Chronic Illness?
Yes, many people with chronic illnesses qualify for SSDI. The key is proving that your illness keeps you from doing any kind of full-time work—not just your old job.
Common chronic conditions that may qualify include:
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Fibromyalgia
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME)
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Lupus
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
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Diabetes (with complications)
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Crohn’s Disease
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Epilepsy
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Heart disease
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Chronic migraines
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Long COVID
Even if your illness isn’t on this list, you might still qualify if it seriously affects your daily life and work ability.
How Do You Prove a Chronic Illness to Social Security?
To get approved for SSDI, you must show that:
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You have a medically diagnosed condition.
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The condition has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
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You can’t do substantial gainful activity (which usually means full-time work).
This requires strong medical evidence, such as:
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Doctor’s records and test results
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Notes about your symptoms and treatment
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Statements from specialists (like rheumatologists or neurologists)
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A list of all medications and side effects
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Notes from physical therapy or pain clinics
Many chronic illnesses don’t show up clearly on lab tests. That’s why detailed records from your doctor matter so much.
Why Are Chronic Illness Claims Often Denied?
Sadly, many SSDI claims for chronic illness are denied the first time. According to the Social Security Administration, more than 60% of initial claims are turned down.
Here’s why that happens:
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Lack of medical proof: If your doctor’s notes are brief or unclear, your illness may not seem serious enough.
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Gaps in treatment: If you don’t visit the doctor regularly or stop treatment, Social Security may think you’re not trying to get better.
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Subjective symptoms: Conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue often rely on how you feel—not just test results.
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Working part-time: If you’re still working a little, Social Security may assume you can work full-time.
If this happens to you, don’t give up. You have the right to appeal.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
1. Build a Strong Medical Record
Visit your doctor regularly and make sure they note all your symptoms, not just the diagnosis. Ask them to explain how your illness affects your daily life.
2. Get a Specialist Involved
A note from a specialist—like a rheumatologist for lupus or an immunologist for long COVID—carries more weight with Social Security.
3. Track Your Symptoms
Keep a journal. Write down when you’re in pain, how long you can walk or sit, and how your illness affects your mood and sleep. Share this with your doctor so they can include it in your records.
4. Be Honest on Your Forms
When filling out your SSDI application, don’t downplay your struggles. It’s okay to admit you’re having a hard time.
5. Get Help from a Lawyer
Working with an experienced disability attorney greatly increases your odds. We know how to gather the right evidence, fill out paperwork, and argue your case in front of an administrative law judge.
The SSDI Application Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s what happens when you apply for SSDI:
Step 1: File Your Initial Application
This includes medical records, work history, and details about your illness. You can apply online or in person at a Social Security office.
Step 2: Wait for a Decision
This can take 3 to 6 months. Most people get denied at this stage, especially for “invisible” illnesses like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue.
Step 3: Appeal the Decision
You have 60 days to file an appeal. Don’t wait. The appeal has four levels:
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Reconsideration: A different reviewer looks at your case.
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Hearing: You appear before a judge. This is where many people finally win.
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Appeals Council: A higher panel reviews the judge’s ruling.
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Federal Court: The final option if all else fails.
Step 4: Get Approved
Once approved, you’ll receive back pay from the date you became disabled. You’ll also become eligible for Medicare after 24 months on SSDI.
How Long Does It Take to Get SSDI for a Chronic Illness?
It depends. Some people wait a few months. Others wait one to two years, especially if they have to go through appeals.
That’s why it helps to start early, file paperwork correctly, and work with someone who understands the system.
Can I Work and Still Get SSDI?
Maybe. Social Security allows a Trial Work Period where you can test your ability to work without losing benefits. You must report your income and stay under certain limits.
If you work too much or earn more than the set amount, you may lose SSDI. But part-time or flexible work might still be possible, especially after approval.
Key Takeaways: SSDI and Chronic Illness
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You can qualify for SSDI if your chronic illness keeps you from working.
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Strong medical records are the most important part of your case.
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Many people are denied at first—but appeals often lead to success.
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Keep track of your symptoms, get specialist support, and don’t be afraid to ask for legal help.
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SSDI offers more than money—it gives you peace of mind and access to Medicare.
Ready to Get Help?
Applying for SSDI can feel like a full-time job—especially when you’re already dealing with a tough illness. You don’t have to go through it alone.
The local disability lawyers at Collins Price have helped hundreds of people living with chronic illnesses in North Carolina get the disability benefits they deserve. Contact our office for a free consultation today on your claim. We’ll listen, explain your options, and if we represent you on your claim, will not receive any fees unless your claim is approved.
