Are people with diabetes considered "disabled"?
Unfortunately, diabetes is no longer included as a separate disability listing, so showing you have been diagnosed with diabetes won't automatically get you disability benefits. But, if you have complications arising from your diabetes that fall under a disability listing, you might get approved for benefits.
Is diabetes considered disability by the IRS?
Is diabetes considered a disability for tax purposes? The IRS allows you to claim a tax deduction for many of the expenses you incur to diagnose, monitor and treat diabetes. If you, your spouse or a dependent suffers from diabetes, it’s likely that you have more medical expenses than the typical person.
Is diabetes a dreaded disease?
“This is what leads to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure or blindness to name just a few of the more dreaded complications.” According to Naidu, Type 1 diabetes can develop into a life threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) which may result in coma and death.
Can I qualify for disability if I have diabetes?
You can qualify for disability benefits regardless of what type of diabetes you have. However, there are other factors that may affect your eligibility, such as whether or not your diabetes is controlled or uncontrolled. One big concern when it comes to applying for disability benefits is whether or not your diabetes is controlled or uncontrolled.
What type of diabetes do you have to have to have a doctor diagnose you with?
What causes type 2 diabetes?
Do people with diabetes have to take insulin?
Is the Mastering Diabetes Method difficult?
Is type 1 diabetes the same as type 2 diabetes?
Does Mastering Diabetes have scientific references?
Can you live with diabetes type 1 or type 2?
See 2 more

Can you get disability for diabetes?
The short answer is "Yes." Under most laws, diabetes is a protected as a disability. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are protected as disabilities.
What benefits are diabetics entitled to?
Type 2 diabetes can cause severe complications that may make a person eligible for disability benefits. There are two types of benefits: SSDI, which requires a qualifying length of time in work, and SSI, which can support people with disabilities at any age and time in their work career.
Is diabetes a serious illness?
Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is the No. 1 cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, and adult blindness. In the last 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes has more than doubled.
Do diabetics get free glasses?
Having diabetes can make us more susceptible to certain health issues and so people with diabetes qualify for free sight tests and, if your diabetes is treated with medication, no prescription charges. To qualify for free prescriptions, you need to apply for a medical exemption certificate.
Do diabetics get free dental treatment?
Do diabetics get free dental care? Diabetics don't get free NHS dental treatment, but it's still important that you book regular check-ups with your dentist. You should also check if you meet any other factors that qualify you for free NHS dental treatment.
Can you get PIP for being diabetic?
Some people with diabetes may be able to claim benefit for themselves or someone they're supporting. This includes Disability Living Allowance for children and Personal Independence Payment for adults.
What is the disability rating for diabetes?
It will rate your diabetes as 10 percent disabling if you can manage it with diet alone. You will receive a 100 percent disability rating if you require insulin more than once a day. You can also receive ratings of 20, 40, or 60 percent.
Is type 2 diabetes a disability UK?
Is diabetes a disability? Although you may not feel disabled, diabetes is classed as an 'unseen disability' under the Equality Act. This has its advantages as it can help to protect against discrimination at work.
Diabetes and Disability Benefits: Everything You Need to Know - WebMD
Diabetes is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Find out your rights in the workplace and when you might qualify for disability benefits.
Is Diabetes a Disability? | Social Security Disability ... - HelpAdvisor
Is Diabetes Considered a Disability in the United States? Approximately 34.2 million Americans, or more than one in 10, live with diabetes. Additionally, a further 88 million have prediabetes. That means roughly a third of adults in the United States have a substantial risk of developing diabetes in the future.
Can you claim disability benefits if you have diabetes? | Patient
Is diabetes a disability? Under the 2010 Equality Act, type 1 diabetes is defined as a disability, in that it may have a ‘substantial, long-term, negative impact on a person’s ability to carry out normal, day-to-day activities’.Many people with type 2 diabetes are also covered by this definition. The aim is protect you from discrimination, such as needing time out during the working day ...
Can Type 2 Diabetes be a Disability? | Thorntons Solicitors
According to Diabetes UK, there are now 3.9 million people in the UK who are diagnosed with diabetes, and an anticipated 1.1 million currently undiagnosed.
Disability Living Allowance - Diabetes and DLA
Parents of children with diabetes who are under the age of 16 may be entitled to a tax-free social security benefit called Disability Living Allowance (DLA). DLA may be available if your child needs more care and assistance than other children their age. Is DLA means tested? DLA is not means tested, which means that […]
Proving Diabetes is a Disability | ADA
American Diabetes Association. 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900 Arlington, VA 22202. For donations by mail: P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023. 1-800-DIABETES
What type of diabetes do you have to have to have a doctor diagnose you with?
First, you need to have a doctor diagnose you with diabetes type 2 or 1 , and second, you need to demonstrate that you have one of the following complications related to diabetes:
What causes type 2 diabetes?
The underlying condition that causes type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, a buildup of dietary fat in cells that aren't meant to store it. These cells reject sugars from the blood, causing your levels to spike.
Do people with diabetes have to take insulin?
People with diabetes type 1 often feel that they've gotten the short end of the stick, and when it comes down to it, they will have to supplement insulin daily for the rest of their lives.
Is the Mastering Diabetes Method difficult?
Even though the steps are simple, and the results are incredible, it can still be difficult to actually execute the Mastering Diabetes Method.
Is type 1 diabetes the same as type 2 diabetes?
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have similar challenges -- elevated blood sugar levels, and the symptoms that follow, including obesity, elevated blood pressure, heart disease, and the potential for organ, vision, and nerve damage.
Does Mastering Diabetes have scientific references?
Mastering Diabetes has strict guidelines for scientific references in our articles. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, governmental organizations, and reputable medical organizations. We do our best to avoid using non evidence-based references in all articles. The references in this article are listed below.
Can you live with diabetes type 1 or type 2?
Whether you're living with diabetes type 1 or type 2, you have a choice. You can resign yourself to a potentially shortened life with constant treatment, complicated symptoms, and medical challenges.
What are the rights of people with diabetes?
Those with diabetes have rights and protections to keep them healthy and safe when dealing with law enforcement or when in jail or prison. Those in jail or prison have rights to adequate medical care and equal treatment under federal law.
How long do you have to work to get disability?
Working for at least a year. Have a condition that is expected to result in death within twelve months. Disability claims typically go through local Social Security Administration field offices. Applications can typically be given in person, on the phone, online, or by mail.
How long do you have to work to qualify for SSDI?
To qualify for SSI or SSDI, a person must have a disability that prevents them from either: 8. Working for at least a year. Have a condition that is expected to result in death within twelve months.
How many hours can you work on FMLA for diabetes?
To qualify for FMLA, a person needs to have worked at the same employer for 12 consecutive months, for at least 1,250 hours. The employer also has to have a minimum of 50 employees within 75 miles of each other.
What are reasonable accommodations for diabetics?
Reasonable accommodations must be given to those with diabetes. This could include: Regular breaks to check blood sugar levels. A seat if neuropathy is present. Under the law, workplaces are required under antidiscrimination laws to provide reasonable accommodations. 4.
How long can you take FMLA for diabetes?
Those with diabetes who qualify under the FMLA can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. Legally, employers are required to allow this leave.
Can you transfer a student with diabetes to a different school?
Transfer students with diabetes to a different school in order to receive appropriate care. Stop students who have diabetes from attending any school-sponsored activity, including field trips and sports days. State laws can be complicated and can be unclear regarding who should care for a child with diabetes at school.
How long can you work before you get disability?
In most cases, your health conditions should prevent you from working for at least a year before you become eligible. However, you may get disability insurance earlier if doctors believe diabetes may end your life within a year.
How long does it take to get a Social Security disability?
If Social Security approves your claim, you will typically start receiving payments after five months. If it denies your claim, you can appeal the decision. A Social Security disability attorney can help you present your case to an administrative law judge.
Is Type 1 Diabetes Classed as a Disability?
There are two types of diabetes to consider. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition caused when the body attacks its own cells, making them unable to produce the hormone insulin.
Is Diabetes a Long-Term Disability?
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition, so it’s regarded as a long-term disability. With diet and exercise, people with type 2 diabetes can become asymptomatic and no longer need medication. For these people, diabetes is not a long-term disability.
Can I Qualify for Disability Benefits With Diabetes?
While diabetes is a disability, that doesn’t mean every individual with diabetes is eligible for disability benefits.
Can I get SSDI if I have diabetes?
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as someone with diabetes today, you must also have at least one of the following diabetic complications:
Do people with type 2 diabetes make insulin?
The bodies of people with type 2 diabetes make insulin, but they may not make enough, or their cells may not respond to it the way they should.
What is SSDI disability?
Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). SSDI provides help to get you back to work, and income if you can’t. It also qualifies you for Medicare and prescription drug assistance. You may be eligible for SSDI if you’ve worked for 5 of the last 10 years and meet the SSA definition of disability. This means you have a physical or mental impairment that will last a year or cause death within a year. Find more information on how to qualify for disability for diabetes.
What if you don't qualify for SSDI?
What if you have limited income and resources, but don’t qualify for SSDI? You may qualify for SSI, which gives you a monthly assistance check. In most states, children who qualify for SSI can also get Medicaid, a health care program for people with low income.
What supplies do you need for diabetes?
You may need to travel for your job, but your medical supplies won’t stop you from meeting this need. You can take diabetes supplies through security. This includes: 1 Insulin and products to dispense it, such as vials and pens 2 Unused syringes when you have them along with injectable medication 3 Lancets 4 Used syringes when you carry them in a hard-surface container to store used syringes and test strips 5 Liquids (including water, juice, or liquid nutrition) or gels
What are reasonable accommodations for diabetes?
Reasonable accommodations for diabetes include: Breaks to check blood sugar, eat a snack, take medication, and go to the bathroom. If you have a problem with your blood sugar level, a place to rest until it goes back to normal. Ability to keep diabetes supplies and food nearby.
What is impairment in mental health?
Impairment. This relates to a problem with your body and how it works, or your mental function: loss of vision or memory, for example. Activity limitation. That means you have a challenge doing something non-disabled people can. This could relate to vision, hearing, walking, or problem-solving.
Does diabetes qualify for disability?
Diabetes doesn’t automatically qualify. Insurance companies weigh it on a case-by-case basis, and they make decisions on disability insurance based on how much diabetes has affected your body -- for example, if it has resulted in nerve damage or blindness. Supplemental Security Income program (SSI).
Can you ask about diabetes in an interview?
You don’t. In fact, the Americans with Disabilities Act says employers can’t ask any questions during a job interview that could reveal the existence of a disability.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is the medical term for abnormally high blood glucose levels. This condition can result in potentially serious complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome.
Chronic hyperglycemia
Chronic hyperglycemia may occur in people who have difficulty controlling their blood glucose levels. The condition may cause complications, such as:
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is the medical term for abnormally low blood glucose levels. People who take insulin to control their diabetes are at increased risk of hypoglycemia.
How Can I Apply for Disability Benefits Based on Diabetes?
An easy way to apply for Social Security disability benefits is to file your claim online at www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability. You can also file a claim over the phone by contacting Social Security at 800-772-1213, but be prepared for long wait times. For more information, please see our article about applying for Social Security disability benefits.
What are the complications of diabetes?
Complications from diabetes include: 1 nephropathy (kidney disease) 2 neuropathy (nerve damage) in feet or hands that disrupts your ability to stand, walk, or use your hands 3 retinopathy (eye and vision problems) 4 cellulitis and other skin infections 5 hypertension (high blood pressure) 6 heart disease 7 stroke 8 gastroparesis (a type of nerve damage that interferes with digestion) 9 peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood flow to your limbs), and 10 depression.
What does the SSA look for in a person with neuropathy?
The SSA will look for information that shows how well you can use your arms and hands, stand, and walk. For instance, if you have peripheral sensory neuropathy that limits the sensation in your legs or feet, you may have difficulty walking or using foot controls. The SSA is also interested in whether you can focus on tasks, get along with others, and come to work on a regular basis. For instance, if you have poor control over your glucose levels during the day, the SSA might find that you are unable to concentrate for long periods of time. If you suffer from depression or extreme fatigue, your RFC might state that you are unable to perform work on a consistent and regular basis. If you have neuropathy in your legs from your diabetes, you might be unable to stand and walk for long periods of time. If you have blurred vision, your RFC should say that you can't perform jobs in which vision is important.
What are the symptoms of diabetes type 1 and type 2?
Symptoms of both diabetes type 1 and diabetes type 2 include frequent urination, unusual thirst and hunger, and extreme fatigue. People with type 2 diabetes also can suffer from tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, frequent infections, and cuts that are slow to heal. Complications from diabetes include: ...
What happens when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to process glucose?
Diabetes happens when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to process glucose. Diabetes can often be controlled with treatment—a combination of medication and diet. As a person gets older, sometimes diabetes can't be controlled, and then it can cause damage to internal organs and other problems.
What diseases can cause a person to lose blood?
retinopathy (eye and vision problems) cellulitis and other skin infections. hypertension (high blood pressure) heart disease. stroke. gastroparesis (a type of nerve damage that interferes with digestion) peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood flow to your limbs), and. depression.
Does diabetes qualify for disability?
Unfortunately, diabetes is no longer included as a separate disability listing, so showing you have been diagnosed with diabetes won't automatically get you disability benefits. ...
How long does it take to get a disability for diabetes?
If you don’t qualify, your case is kept on file in case you decide to appeal. The process isn’t quick. It can take 3 to 5 months to get a decision, depending on how long it takes ...
What Are Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This type provides a monthly check if you can’t work because of health issues. How much you’ll get depends on how much you were making when you were employed.
How long does it take for a DDS to get your medical records?
The process isn’t quick. It can take 3 to 5 months to get a decision, depending on how long it takes for DDS to get your medical records and other information they need.
Can high blood sugar cause diabetes?
That'll depend on how these conditions affect other parts of your body. For example, hyperglycemia (when your blood sugar stays too high) can lead to something called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). It's a potentially life-threatening condition where your blood sugar and acid levels are too high. It can also damage your:
Can hyperglycemia cause seizures?
That can cause serious issues with your nerves or blood vessels, which can affect your: At the other extreme, hypoglycemia ( when your blood sugar stays too low), can lead to seizures or affect your mental state.
Can you get disability if your blood sugar is too low?
At the other extreme, hypoglycemia (when your blood sugar stays too low), can lead to seizures or affect your mental state. If any of these keep you from working like you have, and you can’t hold any other job that fits your age, education, and experience, you may qualify for disability benefits.
Can you control your diabetes?
You aren’t able to control your diabetes. Serious health problems have come up because your diabetes is uncontrolled. These problems need to be severe enough that your doctor thinks they'll last at least a year. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will decide if you qualify for benefits.
What type of diabetes do you have to have to have a doctor diagnose you with?
First, you need to have a doctor diagnose you with diabetes type 2 or 1 , and second, you need to demonstrate that you have one of the following complications related to diabetes:
What causes type 2 diabetes?
The underlying condition that causes type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, a buildup of dietary fat in cells that aren't meant to store it. These cells reject sugars from the blood, causing your levels to spike.
Do people with diabetes have to take insulin?
People with diabetes type 1 often feel that they've gotten the short end of the stick, and when it comes down to it, they will have to supplement insulin daily for the rest of their lives.
Is the Mastering Diabetes Method difficult?
Even though the steps are simple, and the results are incredible, it can still be difficult to actually execute the Mastering Diabetes Method.
Is type 1 diabetes the same as type 2 diabetes?
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have similar challenges -- elevated blood sugar levels, and the symptoms that follow, including obesity, elevated blood pressure, heart disease, and the potential for organ, vision, and nerve damage.
Does Mastering Diabetes have scientific references?
Mastering Diabetes has strict guidelines for scientific references in our articles. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, governmental organizations, and reputable medical organizations. We do our best to avoid using non evidence-based references in all articles. The references in this article are listed below.
Can you live with diabetes type 1 or type 2?
Whether you're living with diabetes type 1 or type 2, you have a choice. You can resign yourself to a potentially shortened life with constant treatment, complicated symptoms, and medical challenges.
