Can I Get Social Security Disability for Respiratory Failure?

If you are disabled and unable to work due to respiratory failure, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Social Security Listing 3.14

Social Security understands that respiratory failure can be a debilitating and disabling condition. The agency considers applications based on respiratory failure under Listing 3.14. Under this listing, you qualify for disability benefits if you have been diagnosed with respiratory failure resulting from any chronic respiratory disorder other than cystic fibrosis. You must have required invasive mechanical ventilation, noninvasive ventilation with BiPAP, or some combination of both for a continuous period of 48 hours (72 hours if postoperatively) twice within a 12-month period. Each of the 48-hour episodes must have occurred at least 30 days apart. To be expected, the two episodes must have happened within the period Social Security is considering in connection with your application for benefits.

I Don’t Meet the Listing!

If you do not meet the listing, you may still qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits. To prove that you are disabled and unable to work, you will need medical evidence that shows the severity of your impairment. Social Security will need reliable medical evidence from your doctors to show them that your condition limits you and prevents you from working.

Unfortunately, one of the most common reasons for a denial is not enough medical evidence. It is important that you keep a log of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics you have seen for your respiratory failure, including any inpatient stays or hospitalizations.

If you do not meet the listing, Social Security will consider your residual functional capacity (RFC). Your RFC outlines your job restrictions and will be used to determine if you can go back to your past work. Your RFC is also used to determine whether there is other work available for you.

Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

If you have been diagnosed with respiratory failure and are unable to return to work in any capacity, contact a local attorney today. An attorney can help answer your questions or help you apply for disability.