In July 2021, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared long COVID a disability
under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), but only “if it substantially limits one or more major life
activities.”
That statement, however, is qualified with this footnote: “This guidance only addresses the definition of
disability under these Federal civil rights laws. It does not cover other definitions of disability or eligibility
requirements such as those necessary to qualify for Federal benefit programs under Social Security.”
In short, long COVID is a disability, but whether you’re eligible for SSDI is between you and the SSA.