Using An RFC When Applying For Benefits With Kidney Disease

If you are unable to work because of kidney disease, and you cannot meet the criteria of a Blue Book listing, your claim may be approved using a medical vocational allowance with a residual functional capacity (RFC). The RFC will completely detail your restrictions and limitations, showing what you can and cannot do. If a disability claimant cannot meet the specifics of a listing in the Blue Book, he or she may get their claim approved using an RFC with a medical vocational allowance. The RFC will show the disability examiner what you can and cannot do, so they can determine your ability to work and earn a living.

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How To Use The RFC When You Have Kidney Disease

If you suffer from chronic kidney disease, you can experience a variety of symptoms. You may experience swelling in the legs and feet, fatigue and malaise, and extreme pain. As an example, you are 60 years old and you have spent the last 40 years working in a manufacturing facility. Your physician should complete an RFC that details your restrictions and limitations.

You cannot bend or squat because of your pain and swelling. Your extreme swelling in your legs and feet require frequent rest breaks, and you cannot walk more than 500 feet without assistance. Your medication causes drowsiness and dizziness, so you cannot safely operate any machinery or equipment. The RFC clearly indicates that you cannot continue with your job. When your age, educational background, and work history are considered, it is determined you are unable to work.

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What To Include With Your RFC For Kidney Disease

When you submit your RFC to the SSA for review in support of your disability claim, you will also need to provide other evidence and supporting documentation. You will need to provide supporting medical records that confirm your diagnosis and detail the severity of your condition. You will need to detail your educational background, work history for the last 10 years, and your work skills.

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will need to provide proof of income and financial status. You will need to provide paystubs, bank statements, property deeds, vehicle titles, and other financial records. If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you will need to show that you have earned enough credits to qualify for SSDI.

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Get A Free Evaluation

If you have kidney disease and it has left you unable to work, you should speak with a disability attorney about your claim. Claimants represented by a lawyer are much more likely to have their claim approved and be awarded disability benefits. Disability lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means that they will not require payment upfront and that they will only be paid when your claim is approved, and you receive backpay.

You can start your claim online at www.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213 and speaking with a representative. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get your claim reviewed by a disability attorney.

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Additional Resources

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