Is Long COVID A Disability?
COVID-19 has innumerable side effects and symptoms that impact each individual differently. While some symptoms, such as cough, fever, brain fog, stuffy nose, fatigue, etc. are usually par for the course, they can range in severity from person to person.
Additionally, while many people who contract the virus make a full recovery, some individuals suffer from what is known as “long COVID.” Long COVID, or post-COVID conditions, is what occurs when an individual who was infected with COVID-19 experiences an extended case of symptoms.
These symptoms, which can range from extreme fatigue and brain fog, to ongoing health problems that are caused by the previous infection, can impact an individual’s daily life by affecting their ability to work, complete important everyday tasks, engage in social activities, and more.
Long COVID qualifies as a disability under the following federal laws: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504); and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Section 1557).
Does Short Term Disability Cover COVID Symptoms?
When the long term effects of COVID-19 substantially limit a person’s ability to perform at work and earn a living wage, and/or take part in other important life activities, the affected individual is eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
Often, short term disability insurance benefits are awarded to people with long COVID over long term benefits. This is because short term benefits are substantial for patients who recover from their symptoms within a few months.
However, in some cases, the effects of long COVID are much more severe, and there is no anticipated recovery time. In these cases, individuals may file for and receive disability benefits for as long as their impairments persist.
Long Term Effects of COVID
Post-COVID conditions can fall under both physical and mental impairments. COVID-19 is known to affect multiple body systems, which means long term side effects can, as well.
Some symptoms long COVID patients experience that may impede their ability to work and significantly impact daily life include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Lung Issues/Breathing Problems
- Kidney Damage
- Neurological Damage
- Heart Damage
- Mental Health Conditions
- Long Term Emotional Illness
- Circulatory System Issues
- Loss of Taste and/or Smell
- Immune System Disorders
- Organ Function
Short term disability benefits may last for weeks to months, with a limit of up to 6 months. Long term disability benefits may be harder to apply for, but for individuals with severe, long term post-COVID conditions, filing is often necessary.
Your Social Security Disability Lawyer in Virginia Beach, VA
If you are struggling with long term symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, you may qualify for disability benefits. Reach out to O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group today to work with one of our Social Security Disability attorneys in Virginia Beach, VA.
Most initial applications for disability claims are denied, but when you work with a qualified attorney, you increase your chances of being approved for the benefits you need.
When you are looking for trustworthy disability lawyers who will help you file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you can rely on our law firm to help you through every step of the application process.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
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