Heart disease is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. For individuals whose heart conditions significantly limit their ability to work, applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a critical step in securing financial support. At the same time, individuals with heart conditions who want to regain their independence and return to work may benefit from the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Ticket to Work program.
This article will help you understand the types of government benefits available to individuals with heart disease, the criteria for qualifying, and how programs like Ticket to Work can support your path back to employment.
Can You Get Disability Benefits for Heart Disease?
Yes. The SSA recognizes a wide range of heart conditions as potentially disabling. If your condition prevents you from working at a substantial level, you may be eligible for either Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Some common heart conditions that may qualify for disability benefits include:
- Chronic heart failure
- Coronary artery disease
- Recurrent arrhythmias
- Heart transplant
- Aneurysm of the aorta or major branches
- Congenital heart disease
- Symptomatic congenital heart disease
The SSA evaluates these and other cardiac impairments based on medical criteria listed in its Blue Book (Section 4.00 - Cardiovascular System). Your eligibility is based on:
- Medical evidence, such as test results, echocardiograms, stress tests, and treatment records
- Your functional limitations, including fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath
- How your condition affects your ability to perform daily activities or work
How to Apply for Social Security Disability with Heart Disease
To apply for disability benefits, you must:
- Gather documentation of your diagnosis, treatment history, and ongoing limitations.
- Submit a complete application to the SSA, either online, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office.
- Be prepared for a potentially lengthy review process, many initial applications are denied and require appeal.
If you are uncertain about the process or have questions about what documentation is required, Disability Services of America (DSA) can help you navigate the application and appeals process. We offer support to help you prepare your claim and maximize your chances of success.
What Is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work program is a free, voluntary employment support service offered by the SSA. It is designed for people between ages 18 and 64 who receive disability benefits and want to explore returning to work without immediately losing their benefits.
If you qualify, you can receive services such as:
- Career counseling
- Job placement assistance
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Resume development and interview coaching
- Ongoing employment support
Ticket to Work is especially valuable for individuals with heart conditions who may have stabilized or improved with treatment and are considering part-time or full-time employment.
Work Incentives: Protect Your Benefits While Working
One of the most common concerns among disability recipients is whether returning to work will mean losing their cash payments or healthcare. Fortunately, the SSA offers several work incentives through the Ticket to Work program:
- Trial Work Period (TWP): You can work for nine months and still receive your full SSDI benefit, regardless of how much you earn.
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After TWP ends, you have 36 months to receive benefits for any month your earnings fall below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level.
- Continuation of Medicare or Medicaid: You may continue to receive healthcare coverage for years after you return to work.
These protections give individuals with heart disease time to test their ability to work without putting their financial or medical security at immediate risk.
Returning to Work with a Heart Condition
Living with a heart condition doesn’t necessarily mean giving up on work. Many people find that with proper treatment, accommodations, and employment support, they can resume working in a role that fits their abilities and health needs.
You may qualify for workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), such as:
- Reduced hours or flexible schedules
- Remote work options
- Less physically demanding tasks
- Additional breaks
We can connect you with service providers who understand your unique needs and help you build a sustainable return-to-work plan.
Why Contact Us?
If you have heart disease and are thinking about applying for disability benefits or if you're already receiving benefits and want to explore working again, we can help. We assist individuals with preparing their claims, appealing denials, understanding SSA rules, and using work incentives to rejoin the workforce safely.
Contact Disability Services of America at 888-689-6760 or complete our online form to get personalized support with your SSDI/SSI application or Ticket to Work plan.