With only 30% of Social Security disability claims approved each year, it’s difficult to secure an approval on your claim. Hiring an experienced disability attorney to manage your claim and advocate on your behalf improves your chances of a favorable outcome.
Does Arthritis Qualify For Disability?
Certain types of arthritis can result in a favorable decision for disability benefits. This depends on the claimant’s ability to meet the necessary requirements for a favorable decision set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or inflammatory arthritis, is one of the most common arthritic disorders we see in our practice. Rheumatoid arthritis is classified as an immune system disorder in the SSA’s Blue Book.
Osteoarthritis is another common condition. While it’s not listed by name as a disability in SSA’s Blue Book, individuals living with the symptoms of osteoarthritis may qualify for disability under the musculoskeletal disorder category.
How To Qualify for Disability for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Individuals filing a claim for SSDI or SSI diability benefits who work with a disability lawer from the initial application forward experience higher approval rates. Whether you choose to work with a disabilty lawyer or to file alone, successful claims depend on providing sufficient medical evidence to support a finding of ‘disabled’.
When gathering evidence for an arthritis claim, it is imperative to be thorough and conclusive. As an example of this, our lawyers review all related medical records and notes and identify gaps in treatment that may impact your claim. Claimants then work with their treating medical providers to confirm or update their record of treatment with recent visits, diagnostics or treatment notes supporting their claim.
When the SSA is evaluating a disability claim, they look for fully completed applications, sufficient proof and the following two items.
Have You Paid Into Social Security?
To qualify for SSDI disability benefits, the SSA requires individuals to have sufficent earned work credit. SSDI is an insurance program. Working individuals have a portion of their income taken out for Social Security which establishes work credits. To qualify for SSDI benefits, most individuals must have 40 work credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years. Younger individuals need fewer work credits. Individuals with insufficient income and work history may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Are You Able to Work Gainfully?
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disorder that essentially causes the body to fight itself, resulting in excessive swelling, redness, and severe pain. Symptoms typically become so severe the individual is unable to work or even perform simple tasks like hold a coffee cup or walk to the restroom without assistance.
If your RA is so severe that it affects your ability to work and symptoms last for a year or longer, you may qualify for disability benefits.
How Much Does Disability Pay With Arthritis?
Once approved for SSDI benefits, the payment amount depends on your average lifetime earnings. The amount paid is not based on the severity of your disability. Everyone who pays into Social Security receives an annual statement of benefits that reflect what you might earn should you become disabled. It also includes estimated survivor benefits as well as potential retirement benefits.
The North Carolina Social Security disability lawyers at Collins Price are experienced and compassionate disability law experts. Our team has the experience to proficiently and successfully handle your claim. Call today to schedule your free consultation.
