Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe and perform daily activities. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two examples of COPD.
If you have COPD or another medical condition that leaves you unable to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD). Our attorneys at Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, can help you determine your eligibility for benefits. To speak with our law firm about your claim, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Does COPD Qualify for Disability Benefits?
Yes, you can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits with COPD. Because COPD affects the lungs, oxygen exchange, stamina, and overall physical capacity, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes it as a potentially disabling condition. If your symptoms prevent you from working full-time, you may be eligible for COPD disability benefits.
Qualifying for Disability With COPD
To get disability benefits for COPD, you must show the SSA that your symptoms are severe, long-lasting, and persistent despite treatment. Your condition must be limiting enough to interfere with work activities. COPD does not improve over time, and many people experience a decline in lung function that leads to significant limitations.
General SSA Qualifying Criteria
The SSA has strict qualifying criteria for all disability claims. To qualify for benefits, your disability must:
- Last or be expected to last at least 12 months
- Prevent you from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
- Stop you from performing any past work or other types of work
- Be considered a qualifying impairment
Beyond your diagnosis, the SSA focuses heavily on how your symptoms limit you. Proving your functional limitations is crucial to filing a successful claim.
Blue Book Criteria for COPD
The SSA evaluates COPD under Blue Book listing 3.02, Chronic Respiratory Disorders. To qualify under this listing, you must provide:
- Pulmonary function test (PFT) results that meet the requirements under section 3.02, OR
- Evidence of worsening conditions or complications that necessitated three hospital stays (for a minimum of 48 hours each) within a year (spaced at least 30 days apart).
If your medical history meets the criteria under this listing, you may be approved automatically for disability benefits.
Equaling a Listing in Severity
Even if your COPD does not meet the exact criteria in listing 3.02, you may still qualify for SSD by equaling a listing. This occurs when:
- The SSA finds your symptoms to be just as severe as the Blue Book criteria of a single listing, OR
- COPD combines with other conditions, such as heart disease, obesity, or asthma, reducing your capacity to work.
If you have COPD that doesn’t meet the required medical criteria, you may still get benefits by applying for a Medical-Vocational Allowance. The SSA will conduct a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment to determine what work, if any, you’re able to do despite your disability.
Living With COPD
COPD is not just a breathing disorder; it affects every part of daily life. Symptoms often worsen with time and can make normal tasks exhausting or impossible. Common COPD symptoms that may prevent someone from working include:
- Persistent shortness of breath
- Chronic coughing or wheezing
- Low oxygen levels that require rest breaks or supplemental oxygen
- Severe fatigue or reduced stamina
- Chest tightness or pain
- Difficulty walking more than short distances
- Sensitivity to dust, fumes, chemicals, or temperature changes
- Frequent respiratory infections or hospitalizations
These limitations can make it unrealistic to maintain a regular work schedule, meet productivity requirements, or complete physical tasks.
Importance of Qualifying Evidence for Your COPD Claim
Strong medical evidence is essential to getting disability benefits for COPD. The SSA requires detailed documentation showing the severity of your lung impairment, how long you’ve had symptoms, and how they limit your ability to work. Your claim should include:
- Pulmonary function test results
- Imaging and other test results
- Treatment history, such as inhalers, steroids, nebulizers, or oxygen therapy
- All records of hospitalizations or emergency visits
- Statements from treating physicians describing your physical limitations
Without complete and consistent medical records, even severe COPD claims can be denied. Working with an experienced disability attorney can greatly improve your chances of claim approval.
Why Work With Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC?
Filing for disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with a serious respiratory condition like COPD. Even clear cases are frequently denied because:
- Medical evidence is incomplete
- Test results are missing or outdated
- Forms are filled out incorrectly
- The SSA underestimates your functional limitations
- The connection between your symptoms and inability to work is not clearly explained
With over 100 years of combined experience in Social Security Disability law, the attorneys at Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, know how to build strong claims. We help clients:
- Understand what type of disability benefits they qualify for
- Gather the right medical evidence
- Prepare all documentation
- Present the full picture of their limitations to the SSA
- Navigate disability appeals and hearings
Our firm also removes barriers to legal help. Our attorneys will travel to meet you where you are, and we also offer virtual appointments.
Contact Us Today
If your COPD symptoms make it difficult or impossible to work, you may qualify for COPD disability benefits. You don’t have to handle the complicated application or appeals process on your own.
Reach out to Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, today to understand your legal options. Our experienced disability lawyers are ready to fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
