Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can be both debilitating and life-threatening. It can interfere with your ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy daily life. But can you get disability benefits if you have lupus? The short answer is yes. However, securing these benefits can be challenging.
This guide will break down what you need to know, including when lupus qualifies as a disability, what makes it difficult to get approved, and the types of benefits available to people with lupus.
When Is Lupus Considered a Disability?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers lupus a disability if specific criteria are met. They evaluate whether it prevents you from earning a living and performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). Here’s what makes lupus a qualifying disability:
Work Ability
Your lupus symptoms must prevent you from doing your current or previous job and from adjusting to other kinds of work.
Duration
The condition must have lasted (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
SSA Blue Book Criteria
The SSA outlines specific requirements for lupus:
It affects two or more organs or body systems with at least:
- A moderate level of severity in one of the systems.
- Two or more common symptoms such as fever, severe fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
It results in recurring symptoms that limit your ability to:
- Manage daily activities.
- Maintain social relationships.
- Complete tasks due to issues with concentration, persistence, or pace.
If your condition meets these standards, you stand a strong chance of qualifying for disability benefits.
Why Is It Hard to Get Disability for Lupus?
Securing disability benefits for lupus can be tricky for several reasons:
Variable Symptoms
Lupus does not present the same way in every individual. Some cases are mild, while others are severe. This variability can make it hard to prove the severity of your condition.
Fluctuating Nature
Lupus symptoms can come and go. You may experience severe flare-ups followed by periods where symptoms seem to improve temporarily. This inconsistency complicates the process of proving your inability to work.
Insufficient Medical Evidence
Often, having just a diagnosis is not enough. You must provide thorough medical documentation to show how lupus impacts your life and work capabilities.
Tips for Applying for Disability with Lupus
To improve your chances of getting approved, take these steps when applying:
Gather Strong Medical Evidence
Include detailed records from your doctor, laboratory test results, and notes about your symptoms. Evidence showing how lupus affects daily tasks is crucial.
Track Your Symptoms
Keep a journal of your symptoms, their frequency, and how they disrupt your work or daily life.
Follow Medical Treatment
Compliance with prescribed treatments serves as evidence that you are actively managing your condition.
Consult an Attorney
Disability lawyers specialize in navigating the SSA process and can help strengthen your application.
What Benefits Can You Get for Lupus?
The SSA provides two types of disability benefits:
1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is available for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. To qualify, you need enough work credits, which depends on your age and when you became disabled.
- Average monthly payment for 2023: $1,483.
- Maximum payment for 2023: $3,627 (for high earners).
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If you don’t have enough work credits, SSI might be an option. This is a needs-based program, designed for people with limited income and resources.
Maximum monthly payment for 2023:
- Individual: $914.
- Couple: $1,371.
If your income exceeds the monthly cap, the SSA will reduce or withhold payment for that month.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What medical evidence do I need to apply for disability with lupus?
You need medical records such as a doctor’s diagnosis, test results, and notes detailing your limitations. Your record should clearly demonstrate how lupus prevents you from working.
How long does it take to get approved for disability with lupus?
The process can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. Many applications are initially denied, so you may need to file an appeal, which lengthens the timeline.
Can I work part-time while receiving disability benefits?
Yes, but your earnings must remain below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month in 2023 for non-blind individuals.
What happens if my lupus symptoms improve?
If the SSA determines that your condition has improved and you can return to work, your benefits may stop. However, improvements must be significant and sustained.
Can I reapply if my claim is denied?
Yes. If your initial claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. Many applicants are successful at later stages of appeal, such as the hearing level.
Should I hire a disability lawyer?
While not required, having a lawyer significantly increases your chances of success, especially if your case involves complex medical conditions like lupus.
Final Thoughts
Living with lupus is challenging enough without the added stress of financial insecurity. While the road to securing disability benefits can be tough, being well-prepared and persistent will make the process more manageable.
If you’re considering applying for disability benefits, you don’t have to face it alone. Attorney Victor Malca has helped individuals in Florida fight for their rights for over 30 years. Contact us today for a free consultation, and together, we’ll work toward the benefits you deserve.
VICTOR MALCA – Florida Workers Compensation & Social Security Disability Attorney
Victor Malca P.A. has over 27 years of litigation experience in Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability lawsuits. His experience and continued success when fighting for his clients puts him among the most trusted workers’ compensation attorney’s in Florida. He specializes in representing injured workers on compensation benefit cases and disabled individuals claiming lost social security disability benefits.
Book a free consultation today. Our unwavering advocacy for employee rights and privileges are recognized by our past clients across South Florida.
About The Author
Meet writer Rei Bayucca, a graduate of Saint Louis University with a passion for writing about legal topics. Explore insightful articles tailored to solve your most pressing issues. Rei’s expertly crafted content is thoroughly researched and fact checked.