Many people in Rhode Island do not realize that certain skin disorders can qualify for Social Security. The Social Security Administration states that acquired, congenital and hereditary skin disorders may all be eligible as debilitating conditions. There are certain things to know if you suspect you may have a qualifying disorder.

First, there are several factors that authorities will consider to determine the severity of your condition, including the following:

• How symptoms limit you
• Frequency of flare-ups
• Extent of treatment
• Side effects of treatment

Minor skin conditions that do not severely limit your ability to function normally will most likely not be considered debilitating enough to qualify for special assistance.

Some disorders that affect the skin may also impact other areas of the body and can cause significant disability. These can include autoimmune disorders that often involve other body systems, cancerous tumors and deformities that affect your ability to hear, speak, chew or see.

Another skin issue that is commonly considered for Social Security assistance is burns. These are evaluated by the same standards as other skin disorders and must meet the same requirements. Typically, they need to have lasted for at least 12 months or be expected to continue to affect you for that amount of time. These can include chemical, thermal or electrical burns.

In order to qualify for Social Security assistance, authorities will need proof of your condition. This can be obtained through biopsies, lab findings and blood tests but must be verified by a medical professional.