• Their medical conditions lead to marked and severe limitations in physical functioning
• They are likely to experience these limitations for the next 12 months
• They have limited financial resources

Disability benefits are available for eligible people via the Social Security Administration (SSA). Following submission of an application, the SSA will complete a disability determination. To do so, they will contact medical providers that you identify, with your consent. SSA will assign as adjudicator to evaluate the family’s finances and to look carefully at how well the patient’s condition meets their specific criteria. They will notify you in writing of the results of their evaluation. If they deny you benefits, you may appeal. If you decide to appeal, bring strong evidence, including new information you didn’t give them before, to support your case. To initiate an application, go to your local SSA office or call 1-800-772-1213. Patients who regularly receive treatment at home should submit infusion or other medication logs with their applications. Patients with blood or clotting disorders are not automatically eligible for disability benefits.

Disability Parking Placards & License Plates
The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State offers disability parking placards and license plates to eligible persons who drive. An application with medical verification is required. Medical eligibility criteria include severe restriction due to lung disease, use of portable oxygen, certain serious heart conditions, inability to walk without the help of another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair or assistive device, or severe limit in the ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological or orthopedic condition. You may obtain an application over the Internet at: www.sos.state.il.us/home. Disability plates require a more involved application, verification of permanent disability and payment of a fee. Placards are for people with temporary disabilities, for a maximum of six months. If you are applying for a disability plate or placard for a medical condition unrelated to symptoms of a bleeding or clotting disorder, please make that request to the physician who cares for that problem.