Can You Get SSDI for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?
TL;DR: Yes. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder that causes abnormal blood clotting, leading to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and recurrent pregnancy loss. When APS causes organ damage from clotting, or when the anticoagulation treatment itself creates work restrictions, you can qualify for SSDI. The SSA evaluates APS under Listing 14.00 (immune system disorders) and under whatever organ system has been damaged by the clotting.
APS makes your blood clot when it should not. The antiphospholipid antibodies attack cell membranes and trigger clotting in arteries and veins. A single clot can cause a stroke, pulmonary embolism, kidney damage, or limb-threatening ischemia. Many people with APS require lifelong anticoagulation, which carries its own risks and restrictions. And catastrophic APS, where clotting occurs simultaneously in multiple organs, can be rapidly fatal.
SSA Listings for APS
| SSA Listing | When It Applies |
|---|---|
| 14.00 (Immune system disorders) | APS as autoimmune condition with documented organ involvement |
| 11.04 (Vascular insult to brain) | If APS caused stroke with residual deficits |
| 4.11 (Peripheral arterial disease) | If APS caused peripheral clotting with tissue damage |
| 6.05 (Chronic kidney disease) | If APS damaged the kidneys |
Medical Evidence the SSA Needs
- Positive antiphospholipid antibodies (anticardiolipin, anti-beta2 glycoprotein I, lupus anticoagulant) confirmed on two occasions 12 weeks apart
- Documentation of clotting events: DVT, PE, stroke, TIA
- Imaging confirming clots: Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MRI
- Anticoagulation records and INR monitoring
- Documentation of organ damage from clotting
- If associated with lupus: lupus documentation
- Hematologist treatment records
Common Denial Reasons
- Anticoagulation expected to prevent further clots. While blood thinners reduce risk, they do not eliminate it. Document breakthrough clotting events and the activity restrictions anticoagulation imposes.
- Antibodies positive but no clotting events. APS requires both antibodies and clinical events. Antibodies alone do not qualify.
- Organ damage not documented. If APS caused stroke, document the residual cognitive and motor deficits. If it damaged kidneys, document kidney function decline.
Compassionate Allowance
Standard APS is not on the Compassionate Allowance list. Catastrophic APS with multi-organ failure may qualify for expedited processing.
Function Report Tips
- Describe restrictions from anticoagulation: bleeding risk, activity limitations, dietary restrictions
- Detail residual effects from clotting events: stroke deficits, breathing problems from PE
- Explain the frequency of medical monitoring: INR checks, specialist visits
- Describe the fear and anxiety associated with the risk of another clotting event
- Note any cognitive changes from micro-clots or stroke
APS claims need documentation of both the autoimmune condition and its consequences. ClaimPath builds SSA-compliant disability documents for $79, saving the 25% attorney fee.
Related Condition Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Get SSDI for Antiphospholipid Syndrome??
TL;DR: Yes. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder that causes abnormal blood clotting, leading to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and recurrent pregnancy loss. When APS causes organ damage from clotting, or when the anticoagulation treatment itself creates work restrictions, you can qualify for SSDI.
What should I know about compassionate allowance?
Standard APS is not on the Compassionate Allowance list. Catastrophic APS with multi-organ failure may qualify for expedited processing.
What are the best practices for function report tips?
APS claims need documentation of both the autoimmune condition and its consequences. ClaimPath builds SSA-compliant disability documents for $79, saving the 25% attorney fee.