The Trump administration is considering a new rule that could dramatically impact eligibility for disability benefits.
Social Security Could Redefine Full-Time Work
Obesity
It is nearly impossible to live in the United States today without taking note of the extreme increase in the rate of obesity across the population. Today, over 39% of the adult population qualify as obese, as defined as a BMI of > 30. (This equates to a weight of approximately 186 lbs. for an individual who is 5'6"). Over 6% of the population are morbidly obese, with a BMI of > 40, which would correlate to a weight of 248 for that same 5'6" individual. The increasing prevalence of obesity among adults is particularly striking when noting that it was only 33.7% a decade earlier.
Retirement and Disability Benefits
As a general rule, you are unable to receiving disability benefits and retirement benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) at the same time. This is true even if your retirement was due in part to being unable to work any longer because of a disability.
Can I get Disability for a Painful Skin Condition?
Social Security disability benefits are a definite possibility for individuals with painful and debilitating skin conditions, including burns. Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluators and judges will grant disability benefits to individuals who can demonstrate the medical criteria of one of the skin conditions listed in what is known as the SSA "blue book". Skin conditions listed here include ichthyosis, bullous disease, chronic infection of the skin or mucous membranes, dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurative, genetic photosensitive disorders, and burns. Even if the "blue book" criteria is not met, the SSA will grant disability benefits to individuals who are otherwise eligible for benefits and can show that they are unable work due to their skin issues
Disability Benefits and Student Loans
According to current federal government statistics, the total student loan balance of Americans stands at $1.6 trillion.
Cirrhosis, liver failure, and disability benefits
Per John Hopkins Medicine, cirrhosis of the liver occurs when scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue. This process stops the liver from working normally and the damage to your liver builds up over time. Although many people might associate cirrhosis with alcohol consumption, cirrhosis can also be caused by hepatitis and other viruses, autoimmune disorder, blocked or damaged bile ducts, certain medications and chemicals, parasite infections, episodes of heart failure with blood build up in the liver, certain diseases passed from parent to child, as well as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Symptoms may include fluid buildup, vomiting blood, muscle loss, low energy and weakness, and even confusion, among other symptoms (Source: John Hopkins Medicine).
