Is Asthma a Disability? How to Apply For Benefits

For many, asthma is a chronic condition that affects one’s ability to breathe, function, and stay employed. If you’re living with severe asthma, you may be wondering: Is asthma a disability? And more importantly, can you receive Social Security Disability benefits for it?

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd., we help individuals throughout the Chicago area and beyond navigate the complex Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) process. With over 100 years of combined experience, our dedicated attorneys are here to support you every step of the way. Call us at (847) 299-0008.

Is Asthma a Disability?

The short answer is yes. Asthma can be considered a disability, but only in specific cases. The Social Security Administration (SSA) includes asthma under its Blue Book listing of respiratory disorders, but it must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify.

SSA doesn’t automatically grant benefits just because you’ve been diagnosed with asthma. To be eligible, you must prove that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from maintaining “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). In other words, you are unable to work consistently due to your symptoms and impaired respiratory function.

When Does My Asthma Qualify for Benefits?

To qualify for disability benefits, your asthma must be more than just sporadic attacks. SSA typically looks for the following:

• Frequent hospitalizations: Usually, at least three hospital stays within a 12-month period, each lasting at least 48 hours, including hours spent in the emergency room before admission.
• Ongoing medical treatment: You must be under continuous care and follow prescribed treatments, such as inhalers, steroids, or nebulizer therapy.
• Documented limitations: Records showing that asthma prevents you from performing work or regular daily activities.

SSA also examines how your symptoms impact your ability to move, concentrate, or interact with others over consecutive months.

Understanding the Medical-Vocational Allowance

If your asthma doesn’t meet the SSA’s Blue Book definition for respiratory disorders, there’s still a path forward.

You may qualify through a Medical-Vocational Allowance, which takes a broader view of your case by evaluating:

• Your age
• Education level
• Work history
• Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) — a determination of what physical or mental tasks you can still do despite your limitations

Even if your asthma doesn’t meet the strict criteria in the SSA’s listing, if your respiratory function makes it impossible to return to your previous work or adapt to new work, you may still meet the eligibility for disability benefits under this allowance.

Applying for Disability Benefits with Asthma

Filing a disability claim for asthma isn’t always straightforward. It involves thorough documentation, meeting key deadlines, and understanding how SSA evaluates respiratory disorders. Many valid claims are initially denied due to incomplete paperwork or insufficient evidence.

Having The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates on your side can make all the difference.

What Information Do I Need to Qualify for Disability with Asthma?

To build a successful claim, you should gather the following:

• Medical records: Including lung function tests like spirometry or FEV1, emergency room reports, and hospital discharge summaries
• Physician statements: Your treating doctor should write a letter explaining how your asthma affects your daily activities and your ability to work
• Employment history: Showing how asthma has impacted your ability to sustain gainful employment
• Treatment compliance: Documentation that you are following your prescribed treatment plan

Detailed records that highlight your limitations over consecutive months can significantly strengthen your case.

How Our Disability Attorneys Can Help

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd., we understand the toll that chronic respiratory disorders like asthma can take. We’ve spent over 50 years helping individuals navigate the SSDI and SSI process and secure the benefits they deserve.

We know the eligibility requirements, how to interpret lung function tests, and how to present your case in a way the SSA understands. Whether you’re just starting your application or facing an appeal, we’re here to advocate for you at every step.

And with our contingency fee structure, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. No upfront costs and no hourly fees. Just reliable, compassionate support when you need it most.

Let’s Take the Next Step Together

If asthma is affecting your ability to work or manage your daily activities, you don’t have to face the Social Security system alone. Our attorneys are ready to help you understand your options, prepare a strong application, and fight for the benefits you need.

Call The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd. at (847) 299-0008 to schedule your free case evaluation. There’s no fee unless we win your case.