Information Qualifying for Social Security Benefits With HIV or AIDSDecember 8, 2017 If you are living with HIV or AIDS, you might be eligible for financial aid. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers monthly disability benefits for people in need. While HIV might not "automatically" qualify, thousands of people are eligible for assistance every year. This guest blog by Deanna Power, Director of Outreach at Disability Benefits Help, sheds some light on the process. Medical Qualifications Via the Blue BookThe SSA maintains its own qualifying criteria for disability benefits, known colloquially as the Blue Book. HIV and AIDS can both qualify for benefits under Section 14.11. There are nine ways to qualify with HIV:
Many of the HIV listings require blood work or other medical evidence, so it's always a good idea to review the qualifying criteria with your provider to determine if you're eligible for benefits. AIDS will always meet one of the above criteria, so if you have an AIDS diagnosis you will not have any difficulty medically qualifying. HIV approval is not guaranteed. Additional Information Needed to QualifyThe SSA will gather all of your medical evidence on your behalf, so as long as you note where you've received treatment, the SSA can evaluate your claim. You'll also need the following information to apply:
It's important to be as thorough as possible when describing your work ability when living with HIV or AIDS, because it's possible to qualify without meeting any medical criteria by showing that your complications or symptoms leave you unable to earn $1,170 per month (or $1,180 per month in 2018). This is what the SSA considers to be a "gainful living." A helpful piece of medical evidence to have on your side is a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) evaluation. This form outlines exactly how much physical activity you're able to perform. You can download an RFC online for your doctor to fill out on your behalf. Tips on How to ApplyThe easiest way to apply is online on the SSA's website, but you can also apply at your closest Social Security office. Make an appointment to apply online by calling the SSA toll free at 1-800-772-1213. If you need any additional assistance filing your claim, you can call the SSA for guidance -- a good idea is to find your local office and call your location directly to speak with someone significantly faster than calling the SSA's main line. The average claim is approved within three to five months. You can use your monthly benefits on hospital bills, medication costs, rent or a mortgage, or any other daily living needs. [Note from TheBody.com: This article was originally published by AIDS United on Dec. 8, 2017. We have cross-posted it with their permission.] Related Stories![]()
Add Your Comment:
(Please note: Your name and comment will be public, and may even show up in
Internet search results. Be careful when providing personal information! Before adding your comment, please read TheBody.com's Comment Policy.) |
The content on this page is free of advertiser influence and was produced by our editorial team. See our advertising policy.
Most Viewed Articles
|