Canton
Lupus Lawyer

On This Page

1. Lupus and Social Security Disability Eligibility
2. Applying for Disability Benefits for the First Time With Lupus
3. Why Choose Berger and Green for a Lupus Disability Claim

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

January 01, 2026

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Living with lupus can make even simple daily tasks exhausting. Chronic pain, overwhelming fatigue, and unpredictable flare-ups can turn holding a steady job into an impossible challenge.

When lupus interferes with your ability to work, Social Security Disability benefits may provide critical financial support—but getting approved is often frustrating and stressful.

If you’re struggling with lupus and wondering where to turn, a Canton lupus lawyer at Berger and Green can help. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped people with serious, long-term conditions pursue the benefits they deserve.

We know how disruptive lupus can be, and our Canton Social Security Disability lawyers understand how difficult it is to navigate the disability system while managing your health. Contact our team today to talk about your options and take the next step forward.

Lupus and Social Security Disability Eligibility

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body, often in unpredictable and debilitating ways. People with lupus commonly experience severe joint and muscle pain, swelling, extreme fatigue, and weakness that does not improve with rest. These symptoms alone can make it difficult to sit, stand, walk, or use the hands consistently throughout a workday.

Flare-ups are another major challenge. Lupus symptoms can worsen suddenly, causing missed workdays and making it hard to maintain a reliable schedule. Many employers expect consistency, but lupus does not follow a predictable pattern.

For some people, lupus leads to serious complications involving the kidneys, heart, lungs, or nervous system. These issues may cause shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or neurological symptoms that further limit the ability to work safely and effectively.

Cognitive problems—often called “lupus fog”—can interfere with memory, focus, and decision-making, making even sedentary or simple jobs difficult to perform.

Disability Benefits Available for Lupus

If lupus has made it impossible for you to continue working, the Social Security Administration offers two disability programs:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to people who have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. Most applicants need about 20 work credits—roughly five years of employment—although some people may qualify with fewer credits depending on their age. SSDI is based on your earnings history, not your current income or assets.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. Work history is not required, but strict financial limits apply. SSI is designed to help people who are disabled and lack other means of financial support.

Both programs use the same medical standard. You must show that lupus prevents you from performing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months.

Do I Have to Stop Working Before Applying for Disability Benefits?

No. You do not have to stop working for a year before applying for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration focuses on whether lupus is expected to prevent you from maintaining consistent, full-time employment for at least 12 months—not how long you have already been out of work.

That said, working while applying can raise questions about your ability to sustain full-time work. Each situation is different, and the key issue is whether your symptoms allow you to work consistently and reliably, not whether you are making an effort to keep working. To qualify for benefits you must show that you are unable to work and will be unable to work for a minimum of 12 months.

Applying for Disability Benefits for the First Time With Lupus

Filing for Social Security Disability benefits for the first time can be intimidating, especially when you’re already dealing with the daily challenges of lupus.

The application is detailed and requires you to clearly explain how your condition limits your ability to work on a consistent basis. Many people underestimate how closely the Social Security Administration reviews these applications, and small mistakes or missing information can lead to unnecessary delays or denials.

Berger and Green helps make the initial application process easier. If you choose our firm, we complete and file your disability application on your behalf, making sure your work history, medical providers, and limitations related to lupus are fully reported. Our goal is to take the pressure off you and help you avoid common problems that can arise when applying on your own.

Filing a strong initial application is an important first step, but even well-prepared lupus claims are often denied. Understanding what happens next—and how to respond to a denial—can make a significant difference in whether benefits are ultimately approved.

What Happens If Your Lupus Disability Claim Is Denied

It can be discouraging to receive a denial after applying for Social Security Disability benefits, especially when lupus has already taken so much from your daily life.

However, many valid claims are denied at first. A denial does not mean you are not disabled—it means the Social Security Administration did not approve your claim at that stage of the process.

After a denial, you have the right to appeal. The first step is typically reconsideration, where the SSA takes another look at your claim. If your claim is denied again, the next step is a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Additional appeals may be available if needed. Each stage has strict deadlines, and missing one can force you to start over.

Berger and Green helps clients at every level of the appeals process. We handle the paperwork, filings, and communications required to keep your claim moving forward and advocate for you as your case progresses.

You do not have to accept a denial or navigate the appeals process alone. With guidance, many people continue their claims and move closer to the financial support they need.

Why Choose Berger and Green for a Lupus Disability Claim

Choosing the right law firm matters when lupus has made working and financial stability uncertain. At Berger and Green, our role is to take on the Social Security Disability process so you don’t have to manage it alone while dealing with a serious medical condition.

Our lawyers help clients at every stage of a lupus disability claim, and we focus on clear communication, steady guidance, and personalized support. We also offer free case evaluations and can handle your case over the phone, you do not need to come to our office to get started.

If you’re ready to move forward, a Canton lupus lawyer at Berger and Green is ready to help. Call now for a free evaluation. We are available 24/7 to take your call.