Disability Insurance Trends: Long COVID Impact Continues For U.S. Workers

Not a day goes by without news on the effects of long COVID. Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that as many as 1 in 13 adults or 7.5% of the U.S. population are experiencing symptoms that last three or more months after contracting the virus.

Long COVID has taken its toll on not only lives, but on the health of Americans and their ability to work. In fact, a Brookings Institute survey earlier this year found that long COVID could account for upward of 15% of unfilled jobs and potentially keep as many as 4 million people out of work.

The symptoms of long COVID range from fatigue, brain fog and breathlessness to muscle and joint pain, chest pain, anxiety and chronic sleep problems. Many are debilitating making it impossible to work. In July 2021, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services stated that long COVID can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

Social Security Disability Insurance: A Lifeline  

If you are suffering from long COVID and are no longer able to work, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can provide much needed financial support. This federal program is available to those who meet Social Security’s criteria:

• Be between 21 and full retirement age.
• Have worked at least five out of the last 10 years and paid FICA taxes.
• Be unable to work in any capacity because of a mental or physical impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

It’s also important to have the care of a healthcare professional who can confirm severity of your medical condition(s).

Allsup experts can help you navigate the complex SSDI process, so you have a better chance of being approved for these vital benefits. For more than 38 years, Allsup has helped over 375,000 customers secure the benefits they deserve.

“Dealing with your long COVID symptoms can be hugely stressful especially when you are no longer able to work,” said T.J. Geist, Allsup Principal Advocate. “Our SSDI specialists understand the ins and outs of SSDI and stay abreast of new regulations and policies that define disabilities such as long COVID.”

You can find more about the SSDI process online, especially applying for SSDI if you have complications from COVID.

Visit Allsup.com for more about SSDI eligibility or call (800) 678-3276 to learn more about filing a claim for SSDI benefits.