Diabetes Disability: Social Security Disability Claims for Diabetes Mellitus

When Diabetes Prevents You From Working

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that impairs the body’s ability to properly use glucose for energy. While once listed as a standalone condition on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) list of impairments, diabetes has been removed from that list in recent years. This change does not mean you can’t qualify for benefits—it simply means that your claim must focus on how the condition limits your ability to work.

Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, managing the condition requires constant vigilance. Strict blood sugar monitoring, a specialized diet, regular exercise, and often multiple daily insulin injections are part of everyday life for diabetics. Despite following this demanding routine, many people with diabetes still experience unpredictable and sometimes dangerous symptoms.

Functional Limitations Caused by Diabetes

Living with diabetes can involve:

• Frequent blood glucose testing

• Immediate dietary intervention when levels drop too low

• Dizziness, disorientation, or even fainting due to hypoglycemia

• Fatigue, confusion, and increased risk of infection with hyperglycemia

• Long-term complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney damage, and cardiovascular disease

Managing these symptoms during a full-time job can become impossible—especially when fluctuations require you to stop and treat your condition immediately. These interruptions can make consistent, safe work difficult or unsafe.

How Binder & Binder® Can Help

If your diabetes prevents you from maintaining steady employment, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. At Binder & Binder®, we understand how to present the functional limitations caused by diabetes—backed by comprehensive documentation from your treating physicians.

We’ll help you build a strong case, demonstrating how your condition limits your ability to perform work-related tasks and meet the demands of a full-time schedule.

If your doctor has said you can no longer work due to diabetes, call Binder & Binder® today at 1-800-4-BINDER or complete the contact form below. We’re here to help you claim the benefits you deserve.