COVID-19 and
Social Security Disability
Covid-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some people who contract the virus will continue to experience symp- toms for weeks or even months after initially recov- ering from the illness. This phenomenon, known as long covid, can include fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping. For some people, long covid can be so debilitating that it interferes with their ability to work or take care of themselves.
The short answer is yes. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people from discrimination in employment, education, access to public facilities,
and other areas of life because of their disabilities. A disability is a physical or mental impairment substantially limiting a major life activity. Major life activities include things like walking, talking, breathing, caring for oneself, and working.
While the ADA does not list every possible impairment that could qualify someone for protection under the law, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has said that “chronic serious health conditions” can be considered disabilities under the ADA. Given that long covid can cause fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and other issues that interfere with major life activities, it’s likely that many people suffering from long covid would qualify as disabled under the ADA.
If you have long Covid and your symptoms make it impossible for you to work or perform other major life activities, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. You can apply for benefits online at www. ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. It’s important to note that it can take several months to get approved for benefits, so it’s a good idea to apply as soon as you realize you’re going to need them.
In addition to Social Security disability benefits, you may also be eligible for protections under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The FFCRA provides paid leave for certain workers who are unable
to work because they are caring for someone with Covid-19 or are themselves experiencing symptoms of the virus. For more information on the FFCRA and whether you might be eligible for paid leave under the act, visit www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employee-paid-leave#eligibility2.
If you have employer-provided health insurance, your plan must cover any medically necessary testing and treatment related to Covid-19 without imposing any cost-sharing requirements (like deductibles or copayments). In addition, if you’re pregnant and have been exposed to Covid-19 or are experiencing symptoms of the virus, your health insurer must provide coverage for any testing or treatment related to your pregnancy without imposing any cost-sharing requirements. For more information on your rights under the Affordable Care Act, visit www.healthcare.gov/coronavirus
Long Covid can seriously impact your ability to work and take care of yourself. If you think you may have long Covid, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and find out if you qualify for Social Security disability benefits or other protections.