Staying Alert At Work And Social Security Benefits
To properly perform the tasks of a job, you must be alert. Unfortunately, many workers suffer from a disorder that makes it impossible to do that. You may be able to gain Social Security benefits if you are now unable to work at your job due to sleep apnea. Read on to find out more.
Is Your Sleep Apnea Covered?
Fortunately, sleep apnea and other connected conditions are covered conditions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs to know more to approve your benefits, however. You must be able to show that your condition makes it impossible to perform certain job duties. The SSA uses a guideline known as residual functioning capacity (RFC). This way of measuring applicants compares what job tasks they can still perform given their condition to what is required for the job. For example, if your position calls for you to drive a vehicle, the RFC will consist of a list of skills and behaviors necessary for doing that job. It then compares the list of tasks with the way the sleep apnea is affecting the applicant. The jobs tasks include certain minimum levels of skills, tasks, and abilities and if you are unable to perform them, you might be granted benefits.
How Sleep Apnea Could Affect Your Job
Those who suffer from sleep apnea are usually suffering, for the most part, from lack of sleep. During the time when they should be resting, they are instead waking up and not getting the continuous sleep time they need. The causes of sleep apnea are varied, but the effects on sufferer's health can be devastating. While trying to sleep, dangerously high levels of carbon dioxide can result from improper breathing. Some find relief using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines to help them breathe easier. The effects on their workdays, however, may still be damaging.
How to Get Coverage
It's important to provide the SSA with enough information to be approved for benefits. Be prepared to give accurate dates and information about when you became unable to work at your job and what you've done to seek treatment. Medical proof of your condition is vital, and you may have to undergo a special medical exam before you are approved for benefits.
Unfortunately, getting approved for SSA benefits is a challenging and frustrating task. Most who apply are turned down. Once you receive a denial letter, contact a Social Security disability attorney about your claim. You are entitled to legal representation at your appeal hearing, so be sure to get the support you need so that you can get the benefits you deserve.
