Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Social Security Disability Lawyers
The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers a number of conditions to be severe enough to prevent you from working. Regardless of the condition, all impairments are subject to evaluation and you must meet certain criteria to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
Though most of the conditions listed by the SSA as disabling are permanent or expected to result in death, those that are not require evidence showing that the condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year. Our dedicated Social Security Disability lawyers are here to help and support you during this time.
Your Condition
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a life-threatening condition that infects and attacks the white blood cells (CD4 lymphocytes) in the body used to fight off foreign diseases. With a decreased number of CD4 cells, the body can no longer fight off other viruses or bacteria, leaving it defenseless. Symptoms of HIV occur in three general phases. The last stage of HIV infection is known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
SSA Evaluation
HIV is considered a disabling condition by the SSA and may qualify you for either SSD or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits dependent on your condition and age. It is an infection that affects the immune system.
The SSA evaluates HIV by the following conditions:
- bacterial infections
- diarrhea lasting one month or longer and requiring intravenous or tube feeding
- fungal infections
- HIV encephalopathy (dementia caused by AIDS)
- infections requiring hospitalization or intravenous care for at least three months in a 12-month period:
- sepsis – a bacterial infection affecting the bloodstream
- meningitis – a viral or bacterial infection resulting in inflammation around the brain and spinal cord
- pneumonia – an infection in the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi
- septic arthritis – a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection affecting one or more joints
- endocarditis – a bacterial infection in the heart valves
- sinusitis – inflammation in the sinuses
- malignant tumors or cancer
- parasitic intestinal infections
- repeated occurrences of HIV infection that limits:
- daily activities
- social activities
- completing tasks in a timely manner
- significant weight loss from chronic diarrhea and weakness
- skin conditions with extensive sores and lesions
- viral infections
To learn more about the qualifying conditions for human immunodeficiency virus, click here.
Have Questions?
Free Online Consultation
Together, our lawyers have more than 150 years of experience and, with a staff of more than 140 attorneys and case managers who handle more than 8,000 disability cases each year, we can help determine if you qualify for benefits. Our SSI attorneys treat you like family and handle your case with integrity. We know how to apply, how to appeal, and how to help. Call us today at (866)-684-7216 or fill out a free online consultation form.
Contact us today Request A Consultation Online »How Can a Lawyer Help?
Having the help of an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer on your side may increase your chances of being approved for benefits. We can help you:
- file your claim
- process complicated paperwork
- handle your appeal
- and more
About FSTN
Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin has a reputation for success and handles Social Security Disability (SSD) cases across the country, partnering with many law firms. By partnering with premier injury law firms throughout the country, our Social Security Disability lawyers easily serve the needs of clients no matter where they live.
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