Countless Americans have had COVID-19. But for some, their symptoms have lasted longer and been more intense than they expected.

Data from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that these lasting symptoms, which are indicative of long COVID-19, have shown up in at least one-third of COVID-19 patients across the United States. In some cases, the symptoms of long COVID-19 can be so severe that they can prevent people from working or limit their ability to work full time. In such cases, these individuals may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

At Leland Law, our lawyers are seeing firsthand how long COVID-19 is affecting our community in Southern California, and they’re here to help. They’ll apply their SSDI experience and detailed approach to help you seek the benefits you deserve. Our attorneys are strong advocates for those who are suffering from disabilities, and they’ll always put your best interests front and center.

What Is Long COVID-19?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Long COVID-19 as COVID-19 symptoms that last more than a month. But, in some cases, it’s found that symptoms can reappear after someone recovers from the illness.

How Can Long COVID-19 Make Working Difficult?

While new symptoms continue to show up, these are some of the most common ones affecting people’s ability to work:

  • Memory concerns
  • Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
  • Executive functioning issues (planning, emotional regulation, etc.)
  • Rapid heart palpitations
  • Severe mental and physical exhaustion
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain
  • Intense coughing
  • Breathing problems
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Bad headaches
  • Constant dizziness

These debilitating symptoms can leave you struggling in almost any occupation. If you find that long COVID-19 is affecting you at work, then our lawyers can help you assemble or appeal your disability claim. Contact us today.

How Does Social Security Determine Long COVID-19 Eligibility?

Since 2021, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has established criteria for how it evaluates COVID-19 disability claims. Here is what it typically looks at when making determinations:

  • A positive COVID-19 test (review SSA’s list of approved testing options)
  • How long your symptoms last
  • How severe your symptoms are
  • How long your symptoms have kept you out of work (SSA says they must prevent you from working for at least one year)
  • Whether you had access to adequate COVID-19 treatment options
  • Whether long COVID-19 led to a developing or worsening health condition, like kidney disease

If you believe you qualify, our team can help you develop a compelling case that can increase your chances of seeking benefits.

Submit Your Disability Application With Confidence

If you’re suffering from long COVID-19, then you may find that your symptoms make it nearly impossible to do your job. If that’s the case, our attorneys are here to help. Reach out to us online or call our office in Whittier at 562-219-4156 or toll-free at  1-866-764-0321 today so that our team can help you get started. We serve clients throughout the Los Angeles area and Southern California.