Most people expected COVID-19 to be a temporary illness. A tough couple of weeks, then back to life as usual. But for many people, that’s not how it went. Even after the virus ran its course, the symptoms stuck around. And they haven’t gone away.
If you’re one of the thousands still dealing with lingering exhaustion, brain fog, breathing issues, or other lasting effects, you might have what’s now known as Long COVID. And if it’s keeping you from working, you may be wondering, Can I qualify for SSDI?
Many people were perfectly healthy before they got COVID-19. They had careers, families, and routines. But now, even getting out of bed feels like a challenge. The good news? Yes, you may be eligible for SSDI, but the process isn’t always simple and straightforward.
What Is Long COVID?
Doctors and researchers are still learning about Long COVID, but here’s what we do know: it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some common symptoms people experience include overwhelming fatigue, headaches, joint pain, or mental health struggles like anxiety and depression. For some, the symptoms come and go. For others, they’re constant and impact their daily lives.
The CDC and medical providers now recognize Long COVID as a real, diagnosable condition. But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to explain and prove, especially to the Social Security Administration.
Read More: Why Your SSDI Case Might Get Denied
How Does the SSA Handle Long COVID?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t have a special category or listing for Long COVID (at least not yet). But that doesn’t mean your claim is automatically denied.
Instead, the SSA looks at:
- Whether your condition has lasted or is expected to last 12 months or more
- Whether it keeps you from doing substantial work (more than $1,550/month in 2025)
- Whether there’s enough medical evidence to support your claim
The key is showing how your symptoms affect your ability to function on a day-to-day basis, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
What You’ll Need to Support Your Claim
If you’re applying for SSDI due to Long COVID, here’s what you’ll want to have in your corner:
- A diagnosis and regular follow-ups with your doctor
- Notes from your providers showing how symptoms limit your daily life and job performance
- Records of treatment attempts, even if nothing has helped
- Statements about your day-to-day challenges, either from you or people close to you
Since Long COVID doesn’t have its own category yet, the SSA will often look at how your symptoms match up with conditions they already recognize, such as chronic fatigue, breathing problems, neurological issues, or even anxiety and depression. The more clearly your medical records show a connection between those symptoms and your COVID infection, in addition to how they affect your day-to-day life, the better your chances are of getting approved for SSDI.
Learn More: Are SSDI Benefits Taxable?
Why This Process Can Feel So Frustrating
Let’s be honest, it’s hard enough just getting through the day when you’re exhausted, foggy, and in pain. Trying to explain that to a government agency that doesn’t “see” your illness? That’s a whole other battle. We know it feels like you have to prove something no one else can see. That’s what makes Long COVID so difficult and isolating. But we want you to know: you’re not alone in this.
At Tabak Law, we’ve helped people navigate SSDI for many different types of illnesses. We know the ins and outs of the system, and we know how to build a case that reflects what you’re really going through, not just what’s within your medical records. If you’re unable to work because of Long COVID, reach out to Tabak Law today. We’ll help you figure out if you qualify, what steps to take, and how to strengthen your claim.