November is epilepsy awareness month, which is the perfect time to explore whether you can get disability benefits for epilepsy. The CDC states that more than three million adults in this country have epilepsy.
Living with epilepsy can make it difficult to work. Epileptic seizures can leave people feeling tired, sore, and unable to work for days at a time. The unpredictability of seizures can also make many jobs dangerous, especially those that require being on your feet. While prescribed treatments can help manage epilepsy for some, the costs are often high.
The good news is that disability benefits may be available for those with epilepsy who can’t work. If you’ve been diagnosed with epilepsy and are unable to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Epilepsy
Epilepsy is considered a qualifying condition for disability benefits by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, you will need to provide extensive medical evidence to support your claim.
The SSA categorizes epilepsy into two types: convulsive epilepsy and non-convulsive epilepsy. The requirements differ slightly for each type.
Non-convulsive Epilepsy
For non-convulsive epilepsy, you must show that you experience:
- Seizures during the day that cause convulsions or loss of consciousness
- Nighttime seizures that significantly impair your daily activities, such as issues with thinking, staying awake, or coordination
You’ll also need to demonstrate that you are still having at least one seizure per month after being on anti-seizure medication for three consecutive months.
Convulsive Epilepsy
If you have convulsive epilepsy, you must provide evidence that you experience:
- Seizures, whether during the day or night
- Serious issues after seizures, such as strange behavior, impaired thinking, fatigue, or other problems that interfere with daytime activities
Documenting Your Epilepsy
Perhaps the most crucial part of getting epilepsy disability benefits is proving your diagnosis with comprehensive documentation. This includes:
Medical Records from Your Neurologist
Obtain detailed records from the neurologist who diagnosed and treats your epilepsy. These should include:
- Notes confirming your epilepsy diagnosis, including the type of seizures you experience
- Documentation of the frequency and severity of your seizures
- Results from EEGs and other tests that verify your condition
Medication History
Provide a complete list of the anti-seizure medications you have been prescribed. Along with this list, keep notes on how effective they have been in controlling your symptoms.
Witness Statements
Ask family, friends, or coworkers, to write statements describing how your seizures impact your daily functioning. These firsthand accounts can be very compelling evidence.
Seizure Logs
Keep a detailed log documenting each seizure, including the date, time, duration, and any unusual behaviors or aftereffects. This can help demonstrate the regularity and severity of your episodes.
Treatment Plan Documentation
Get copies of any treatment plans your neurologist has prescribed, such as medications, dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications. Provide evidence that you are consistently following the recommended treatment.
The more comprehensive your medical documentation, the stronger your case will be for qualifying for disability benefits. Work closely with your healthcare team to ensure you have all the necessary evidence to support your claim.
How to Apply for Epilepsy Disability Benefits
To determine if you can get SSI for epilepsy, you will need to apply with the SSA. The application process includes a few key steps:
Gather Medical Documentation
Collect detailed records from your neurologist, including the documentation listed above. This medical record is crucial for proving your condition.
Complete the Disability Application
You can apply online through the Social Security Administration’s website or in person at your local SSA office. Be prepared to provide personal details about your work history, income, and other medical issues.
Work With a Disability Attorney
Consider hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer to assist you. They can help gather paperwork, fill out forms correctly, and represent you if your initial claim is denied.
Be Ready for the Evaluation
The SSA may schedule a consultative exam with one of their doctors. Be sure to thoroughly describe your seizure symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
It’s natural to feel discouraged when your initial claim is denied. Many applicants must go through the appeals process to get approved for epilepsy disability benefits. An experienced attorney can guide you through the next steps.
The key is providing detailed medical evidence to demonstrate how your epilepsy prevents you from working. With the right support, you can maximize your chances of securing the benefits you need.
Get Help Applying for Disability Benefits in Illinois
If you need help applying for SSD or SSI benefits for your epilepsy, contact the experts at Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates. As the top Social Security Law Firm in Des Plaines and the surrounding Chicagoland region, we’re well-equipped to guide you through the entire process. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
