How Social Security Evaluates Chronic Fatigue Syndrome In Florida Long-Term Disability Claims
Living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) means facing exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix, unpredictable flare-ups, and an inability to keep up with work or daily life. If you’re struggling to hold a job because of CFS, you may wonder how the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your condition when deciding long-term disability claims.
The truth is, winning benefits for CFS is challenging, but possible. It requires strong medical evidence and a clear story about how your illness affects your ability to function. Our experienced Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer helps clients throughout Florida in these cases and explains how SSA views chronic fatigue and the evidence they need to see to approve benefits.
How SSA Views Chronic Fatigue Syndrome In LTD Claims
CFS isn’t always straightforward to diagnose, which makes disability claims more complex. There’s no single test for the condition, so SSA relies on documented symptoms, clinical findings, and medical opinions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued updated diagnostic guidelines that SSA often refers to when evaluating these claims. Your condition may qualify you for long-term disability (LTD) benefits if you can show:
- A diagnosis from a qualified medical provider;
- At least six months of severe fatigue not relieved by rest;
- Symptoms such as impaired memory, concentration problems, muscle pain, sore throat, or unrefreshing sleep;
- Evidence that other medical conditions were ruled out.
CFS doesn’t generally fall under the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, but you may still be entitled to benefits if records show you cannot perform full-time work on a consistent basis.
Common Challenges CFS Claimants Face In Getting Long-Term Disability Benefits in Florida
CFS claims are often denied at first because SSA examiners don’t fully understand how disabling the condition can be. Other common issues that can jeopardize your rights in a long-term disability claim include:
- Limited medical documentation because CFS is underdiagnosed.
- Inconsistent treatment records when patients can’t afford regular care.
- Normal lab results don’t reflect functional limitations.
- Difficulty explaining “good days” versus “bad days” in terms of your work ability.
- Overreliance on personal statements without strong doctor support.
The best way to improve your chances is to make your claim as complete and consistent as possible. Get regular treatment, keep detailed records of symptoms and flare-ups, ask your doctor to complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form, and keep a daily journal tracking fatigue, memory issues, and stamina to strengthen your case.
To Get The Benefits You Are Entitled To, Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer
At Farrell Disability Law, we’ve helped clients in Jacksonville, Orlando, and across Florida get Social Security disability benefits for complex conditions like CFS. We provide the trusted legal guidance you need throughout the application process and practical help gathering evidence to support your claim.
Whether you are filing an original claim or appealing denied benefits, our office provides the caring support and professional legal representation you need. Call or contact us online and schedule a consultation today to speak with our experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer.
Sources:
cdc.gov/me-cfs/about/index.html
ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm
ssa.gov/disability/professionals/documents/64-063.pdf
