Understand the SSA’s Disability Criteria for Pregnancy-Related Complications

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits to individuals who suffer from long-term disabilities that prevent them from working. While pregnancy itself is not a disability under the SSA’s definition, certain pregnancy-related complications may qualify if they significantly limit your ability to work. The SSA will consider your condition against their Listing of Impairments, which includes various medical conditions that may qualify for disability.

To qualify for disability benefits due to pregnancy complications, you will need to prove that your condition meets one of the following:

• Your condition prevents you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• The condition is expected to last for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• The SSA has a Listing of Impairments for various conditions that may include complications related to pregnancy, such as heart disease, severe hypertension, and other life-threatening complications.

Gather Medical Evidence of Your Pregnancy-Related Complications

To apply for disability benefits, you will need to provide medical evidence that demonstrates how your pregnancy complications are preventing you from working. This is a critical step in the process. Here’s what you need:

• Detailed medical records from your healthcare provider that show the nature of your pregnancy complications and how they prevent you from working.
• Doctor’s statements explaining how your condition limits your daily activities and ability to work.
• Hospital records or any documentation that shows serious complications, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or complications that require bed rest or frequent medical interventions.

Apply for Disability Benefits Through the SSA

Once you have gathered your medical documentation, you can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits.

• SSDI: If you have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient amount of time, you may qualify for SSDI benefits. You will need to provide your work history and show that you have earned enough work credits.
• SSI: If you haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI, or if you have limited income and resources, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program focuses on financial need and does not require a work history.

Complete the Application Accurately

To apply, you will need to complete the Social Security Disability application. You can do this online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov or by calling the SSA to schedule an appointment. Be sure to provide complete and accurate information, including:

• Your personal and contact information.
• A thorough work history (for SSDI) or a financial statement (for SSI).
• Medical records and documentation of your pregnancy-related complications.
• A list of any treatments, surgeries, or medications you are currently receiving.

Follow the SSA’s Disability Evaluation Process

Once your application is submitted, the SSA will evaluate your case. They will assess whether your pregnancy complications meet their definition of disability. This evaluation process typically involves:

• Step 1: Determining if you are engaged in substantial gainful activity (SGA). If you are working and earning above a certain income threshold, you may be deemed ineligible for benefits.
• Step 2: Evaluating the severity of your medical condition. Your pregnancy complications must significantly limit your ability to perform work-related tasks.
• Step 3: Checking if your condition is listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments or if it is equivalent to a listed impairment.
• Step 4: Assessing if you can perform your past work. If you cannot do your previous job, the SSA will proceed to the next step.
• Step 5: Determining if you can do any other type of work. The SSA will evaluate your skills, education, and age to determine if you can transition to another job.

Be Prepared for a Possible Denial and Appeal

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims to be denied, especially in the early stages. If your claim is denied, you can file an appeal. The appeals process includes:

• Requesting Reconsideration: The SSA will review your case again to see if they missed any critical information.
• Requesting a Hearing: If your claim is still denied, you can ask for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to present your case in person.

Consider Legal Assistance

Although you can apply for disability benefits on your own, it may be beneficial to work with a Social Security Disability attorney who can help you navigate the application process, gather medical evidence, and represent you at a hearing if necessary. An experienced lawyer can improve your chances of approval by ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and helping you present a strong case.