How to Get Disability Benefits for Epilepsy

If you are experiencing epilepsy and it impacts your ability to work full time, you may be able to qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). 

This article will take you through the process on how to qualify for Social Security disability benefits with epilepsy and the next steps you should take with your application.

What Are The Two Types of Disability Benefits That You Can Get For Epilepsy?

There are two types of disability benefits that you can get for epilepsy. The first is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI benefits or disability are benefits for those who could work, but now are unable to because of a disability like epilepsy.

In order to get SSDI with epilepsy, you need to have earned enough work credits from your work history and meet the medical criteria to qualify for SSDI benefits.

The other is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI benefits are for those with a serious disability like epilepsy and with very limited income and resources. 

SSI is a needs based program, so you need to be able to meet the financial requirements required to qualify.  In some instances you can earn both SSDI and SSI benefits with epilepsy.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits with Epilepsy

Applying for disability benefits can be a complex process, especially when dealing with the stress of having a severe condition. 

We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to help simplify this process and added some tips to increase your chances of being approved for disability benefits.

1. Seeking Help from a Disability Lawyer

If you have epilepsy and you believe it is severe enough that you will not be able to work, then you should apply for disability benefits with the help of a disability lawyer.

Disability lawyers will be able to help you with your claim and application. A disability attorney can help you make sure you have all the right medical evidence, let you know how much disability you can get, and documentation to help prove your claim that you can’t work because of your disability.

A disability lawyer can help appeal your case if it is denied and can help testify on your behalf. In order to get help with qualifying for disability, take our free disability case evaluation today.

2. Meeting SSA Criteria for Epilepsy

The SSA maintains a manual called the Blue Book that contains disability listings. Convulsive and non-convulsive epilepsy are included in this manual. 

When you submit your disability application, the SSA staff that reviews your claim will compare your medical records and other documentation to the appropriate listing in order to determine if you are eligible for benefits with epilepsy.

Understanding the technical and medical language that appears in the Blue Book for epilepsy can be challenging. 

Work closely with your doctor and lawyer to understand the epilepsy listings and to know whether or not you are likely to meet or closely match one of these listings for epilepsy as well.

If your epilepsy doesn’t meet or closely match one of the Blue Book listings for epilepsy disability or another condition that epilepsy causes, but still prevents you from working, you may still be able to qualify for disability benefits. You will need to go through an RFC or residual functional capacity analysis.

Besides medical requirements, for SSDI, you must meet both work and financial requirements. SSDI is based on your work history, specifically the number of work credits you’ve earned through paying Social Security taxes. 

Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 of those earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. However, younger applicants may qualify with fewer credits.

Financially, SSDI does not impose strict income limits, but you must not be engaged in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

 In 2024, if you earn more than $1,550 per month, you may not be eligible for SSDI benefits, as this level of income suggests you can engage in significant work activity despite your disability.

For SSI benefits, the focus is on financial need rather than work history. SSI is designed for individuals who have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI, or who need additional financial assistance.

Your countable resources, such as cash, bank accounts, and other assets, must be below $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. 

Your disability attorney will be there to help you sort all of this out to make sure you are able to qualify under these conditions. 

3. Medical Documentation Collection

When applying, you’ll need to collect medical documentation to submit to the SSA to prove your condition. This documentation should include detailed records from your healthcare providers that detail your diagnosis, treatment history, and the frequency and severity of your seizures. 

EEG results, MRI scans, and other diagnostic tests are crucial pieces of evidence. Additionally, keep records of hospital visits, medication prescribed, and any side effects experienced due to treatment. 

Statements from your doctors and other healthcare professionals describing how epilepsy affects your daily life and ability to work can further strengthen your claim. 

Your disability lawyer will tell you exactly what you need and collect all the medical evidence to give you the best chance of a successful claim.

4. Qualifying & Submitting Application

Once you have gathered the necessary medical documentation, the next step is to apply and submit your application. Start by ensuring that your epilepsy meets the SSA’s criteria for disability. 

When completing the application, provide detailed information about your condition, work history, and how epilepsy limits your ability to work. Be thorough in describing your symptoms and how they impact your daily activities. 

You can submit your application online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Double-check that all required forms and documentation are included before submission to avoid delays or denials. 

Your attorney can help you fill out this application to present your information in a favorable way to the SSA, increasing your chances of approval.

5. Tracking Application Progress

After submitting your application, stay in communication with the SSA to track your application. You can check the status of your claim online through the SSA’s website, contacting the SSA over phone, at a local SSA office. 

Regular follow-ups are important so you’re aware of any additional documentation requests or next steps. Keeping in touch with your disability lawyer is also key, as they can provide updates and advise you on the next steps. 

6. Filing Appeal

If your initial application for epilepsy disability benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal. Many claims are denied initially but are later approved upon appeal. The appeals process involves a reconsideration of your claim, an ALJ hearing, and further appeals if necessary. 

During this process, your disability lawyer will be your greatest asset and will help you gather additional evidence, prepare for hearings, and present a compelling case. 

Careful preparation during the appeals process can significantly increase your chances of securing the benefits you need.

Managing Work with Epilepsy

Managing work while living with epilepsy can be challenging, but it’s possible with the right strategies and support. Depending on the severity and frequency of your seizures, you may need workplace accommodations to help you perform your job safely and effectively. 

Common accommodations for epilepsy include flexible hours, additional breaks, or modifications to your workspace to reduce stress or minimize seizure triggers. 

It’s important to communicate openly with your employer about your condition and any specific needs you may have. You should also understand how working a part-time role might affect your eligibility for disability benefits, particularly if you’re already receiving SSDI. 

How Much is a Disability Check for Epilepsy?

You can earn as much as $3,882 per month in disability for epilepsy, although the average SSDI benefit payment in 2024 is around $1,500. The exact amount you earn for disability with epilepsy depends on your work history and the severity of your epilepsy. 

To get an estimate of how much money you could receive each month via disability benefits for epilepsy, use our Social Security benefits calculator. 

Epilepsy Benefits FAQs

How long does it take to receive a decision on my epilepsy disability claim? 
The initial decision process typically takes 3 to 6 months, but it can take longer if additional documentation is needed or if the claim goes through the appeals process.

Are there specific types of epilepsy that qualify more easily for disability benefits?
The SSA considers both generalized tonic-clonic seizures and dyscognitive seizures when evaluating epilepsy claims, with specific criteria for each type based on frequency and impact.

Can I receive both SSDI and SSI benefits for epilepsy?
In some cases, individuals may qualify for both SSDI and SSI, especially if their SSDI benefits are low and they meet the financial criteria for SSI.

How can I improve my chances of getting approved for epilepsy disability benefits?
Provide thorough medical documentation, work with a disability lawyer, and ensure that your application clearly explains how epilepsy impacts your ability to work.

How does medication effectiveness impact my epilepsy disability claim?
The SSA will consider how well your seizures are controlled by medication. If medication reduces but doesn’t fully control your seizures, it’s important to document any ongoing symptoms and side effects.

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