Are you wondering whether psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis qualifies for Social Security disability benefits?
The good news is that both conditions are recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Psoriasis is listed under Skin Disorders, and psoriatic arthritis falls under Immune System Disorders in their Show Full Answer
Are you wondering whether psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis qualifies for Social Security disability benefits?
The good news is that both conditions are recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Psoriasis is listed under Skin Disorders, and psoriatic arthritis falls under Immune System Disorders in their official Listing of Impairments.
There are two federal disability programs available:
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) – For people with a recent full-time work history, funded by payroll taxes. Benefits begin 6 months after your disability start date.
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income) – For low-income individuals, regardless of work history. Benefits can begin the following month after approval. To qualify for either program, you generally must meet these criteria:
- You earn less than $1,470 per month
- You are unable to perform basic job tasks (standing, walking, lifting, sitting, remembering) for at least 12 months
- You cannot perform any work you've done previously
When applying, you'll need to gather:
- Personal details (legal name, Social Security number, family info, bank details)
- Medical records from your dermatologist or rheumatologist
- A full medication history and test results
- A description of how psoriasis affects your daily life
As one MyPsoriasisTeam member advised, *"Make sure your health providers are keeping good documentation of your treatment and how it affects you."*
The National Psoriasis Foundation's Patient Navigation Center can also help guide you through the application process.
May 22