The Social Security Administration

• Disability benefits are managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It can provide detailed and updated information on disability eligibility and benefits. A link to their website is listed below.
  
  

"Lasting Condition"

• The SSA requires that the condition last at least one year in order to qualify for disability benefits. This can be a problem for lupus patients, because flares rarely last that long.
  
  

"Substantial Income"

• The SSA defines a substantial income as over $840 per month. If a patient with lupus is able to manage his disease well enough to earn an income greater than this figure, he will not qualify for benefits.
  
  

The Doctor's Role

• Support by a patient's doctor can greatly affect her chances of being awarded benefits. The doctor will be required to submit a great deal of documentation to support the claim and can also write a letter on behalf of the patient.
  
  

Required Documents

• The SSA will require extensive documentation from the applicant as well. These documents will include medical records, financial records and proof of citizenship.
  
  

Benefit Amount

• Benefit amounts for any disability range from $617 to $1,800 per month and are based on previous work history. Anyone can check with the SSA to find the benefit amount that would apply.