Sleep apnea and temporary SSI disability   Does sleep apnea treatment qualify a person for temporary SSI? Thanks. This is a fairly common question (regarding temporary and short-term benefits). However, Social Security Disability--and SSI--is a long term permanent disability program. There is no temporary SSI or SSDI. Social Security examiners and judges award benefits using a five-step sequential evaluation system that requires that an individual's condition of disability (per the SSA definition of disability as described in the regulations) must either have already existed for a minimum length of at least one full year, or be projected, based on the available medical evidence of record, to eventually last one full year. Which means, of course, that you do not need to wait until you have been out of work for a year BEFORE you file for disability benefits. If you are working full time you would not qualify for disability. If you are planning on going back to work in less than twelve months, you are not considered disabled for Social Security Disability. While sleep apnea can be a very serious problem, it is unlikely to qualify for disability benefits unless you have other health issues that may or many not be a result of sleep apnea. More importantly, you cannot be working and earning over the monthly substantial gainful activity amount (see the current amount:SGA) no matter how serious your health problems are. Disability requires that an individual be earning less than the SGA monthly limit and have a severe disabling condition. I hope this information helps you decide what you should do with regard to filing for disability. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How are Social Security Disability cases decided? - the Process Social Security Uses In Every Disability Case Decisions On Disability - How Social Security Decides Claims Is Receiving Social Security Disability Based On Whether I Can Do My Current or Last Job? What is the Social Security definition of disability? Why is the Social Security Administration definition of disability so strict? Working and Disability - Are You Allowed to Work While Receiving Social Security Disability or SSI? These pages provide answers to basic questions about pursuing disability benefits Social Security Disability SSI Requirements, Criteria, Eligibility How to file for disability, How to apply for SSD or SSI benefits Who will qualify for disability? - What qualifying is based on Social Security Disability - Permanent Disability How to Claim Disability Benefits through Social Security How to Apply for Disability - What medical conditions can you apply for? What Can I Do to Improve My Chances of Winning Disability Benefits? Social Security Disability Status on a pending claim Working and Disability - Are You Allowed to Work While Receiving Social Security Disability or SSI? What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability Back pay and How Long it Takes to Qualify for it