Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

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Photo of David Dopkin

Can people with heart disease qualify for disability benefits?

On Behalf of | Jul 31, 2015 | Social Security Disability Benefits for Illness

Heart disease is a rampant and costly problem that affects people all throughout the United States, including far too many in the Houston area. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease kills roughly 610,000 people per year in the U.S. That figure means that heart disease causes about 25 percent of the country’s deaths each year.

In addition to heart disease being the leading cause of death in this country for both men and women, about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack each year. When a person has a heart attack or has any kind of heart disease, it can profoundly affect their everyday life. For example, the person may not be able to work at all, let alone continue with the rigors of a full-time job. On the other hand, not working and earning an income can cause the person financial challenges that can increase their stress levels and exacerbate their heart problems.

The conundrum that people with heart problems face with regard to working may get them wondering whether they can qualify for disability benefits. As long as the applicant meets all of the Social Security Administration’s qualifications for disability benefits, Social Security disability benefits for illness may be available for people with heart disease. The SSA has two different benefits programs for people with disabilities who are unable to work or experience a sudden loss of income from a disease. Each program has different qualifications, which are based on each applicant’s circumstances.

People in Houston who have had a heart attack or have heart disease should understand their options for getting Social Security disability benefits. Whether the person is applying for benefits or trying to appeal a denied claim, they may want to seek the help they need to understand how to proceed.

Source: Heart Failure Society of America, “Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Heart Failure,” Accessed on July 22, 2015