Arthritis sufferers deal with chronic pain every day of their lives. Some types of arthritis make it difficult to work, enjoy their hobbies, or care for themselves. If you have arthritis, you understand the challenge it presents.

Many Americans wonder if arthritis is covered by Social Security disability. Arthritis is a covered claim. However, you’ll need to be able to provide evidence that you are no longer able to work due to your arthritis. You will also need to provide supporting documentation about your condition. Pond Lehocky Disability can help.

We work with each claimant to help them file their claim. We help provide the necessary documentation. We also work with the SSA to get claims handled as quickly as possible.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to the swelling and inflammation of joints. The primary symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness that worsen with age. There are different types of arthritis. However, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common.

What Causes Arthritis?

Anyone can get arthritis, but it is most common in older adults. It is estimated that one-third of adults will develop osteoarthritis in their lifetimes. The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis a person has.

• Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by normal wear and tear on the joints. The regular use of our joints causes the cartilage between them to wear down.
• Rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It causes the body’s immune system to incorrectly attack the lining of the joints.

Some types of arthritis, like gout, can happen due to lifestyle habits. These include consuming too much red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Other types of arthritis can develop due to illnesses like lupus or psoriasis.

Can You Get Disability Benefits for Arthritis?

Yes, it is possible to get disability benefits for your arthritis. Arthritis can be a debilitating disease that interferes with your ability to work. If you are no longer able to work and earn an income, you may qualify to receive Social Security benefits.

Numerous types of arthritis are eligible for disability benefits. However, each type of arthritis may have different requirements to prove them.

Is It Difficult to Get Benefits for Arthritis?

It can be difficult to prove your need for Social Security benefits. First, you’ll need a clear diagnosis of arthritis. You’ll need to have copies of your medical records. These will include treatments, medications, and procedures.

You’ll also need clear proof that you are not working full-time and that arthritis is the reason. Some cases have different requirements. You may have to prove an inability to work for 12 months or longer. Depending on the claim, there may be more information required to support your needs.

Collecting this information and correctly filing a claim can be an overwhelming task. This is especially true if you are suffering from debilitating pain. With an attorney on your side, you can focus on rest while your attorney takes the lead on your disability claim.

Can an SSD Lawyer Help with an Arthritis Claim?

A Social Security disability lawyer acts as your advocate. They can review your medical records and help you determine if you have an eligible claim. Your attorney can file a claim on your behalf. We’ll gather the documentation to support your claim and ensure it is filed correctly.

If your claim is not filed correctly or with supporting documentation, it could be denied. Your attorney communicates with the SSA on your behalf. We can also talk to your doctor to collect additional information to support your claim.

An attorney can help if your claim is denied. We will show you can’t use the medical-vocational allowance metric to prove your case. Your attorney can also help you appeal a denial which will then be sent to an administrative law judge.

Throughout the process, an SSD attorney will work tirelessly for you. We will prove your need for benefits and protect your right to collect them. You’ll get clear communication from your lawyer so you know how your case is progressing.

How Much Does a Disability Lawyer Cost?

Most Social Security disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they won’t collect payment from you until they’ve achieved a settlement for you. An agreed-upon portion of your settlement will then be collected as the attorney fees.

Your attorney should let you know in writing how much they plan to collect. Usually, the fee will be a percentage of your settlement amount. In 2024, the SSA passed a fee cap for attorney’s fees of $9,200 or 25% of your back pay amount, whichever is less. This means that regardless of your settlement amount, the fee cannot be higher than $9,200.

When you meet with an attorney, ask about their fee structure and how they will collect their fees and costs. Make sure you understand how and when you will be expected to pay for attorney fees.

What Can You Do if Your Arthritis SSD Claim Is Denied?

Many Social Security disability claims are denied. However, you may still be able to collect benefits. You must prepare an appeal immediately. You have 60 days to file an appeal. After that, you may not be eligible for an appeal and would have to begin the claims process all over again.

The first part of the appeals process involves reconsideration. A new Social Security agent will be appointed to your case. They will review it and allow your attorney to submit new and supporting evidence for your claim. If they enforce the denial, your claim will be heard by an administrative law judge.

What if the Judge Upholds the Denial?

If the judge upholds the denial, your claim can be reviewed by a Social Security Appeals Counsel. The appeals council may decide to uphold the denial. They may also send it back to the administrative judge for review, or approving your claim.

If the council agrees with the administrative judge’s decision, they may deny a review. If the appeals counsel upholds the denial, your last option is to remove the case to federal court. You will then need an experienced trial lawyer to represent you in court and present the facts of your case.

Our team of attorneys at Pond Lehocky Disability is experienced trial lawyers. We are capable of representing you in court and building your case for trial. We give each client individual attention to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Talk to an SSDI Lawyer if You’re Having Trouble Getting Benefits for Your Arthritis

If your case for SSDI benefits was delayed or denied, contact Pond Lehocky Disability. Our attorneys are compassionate, professional, and aggressive. We look forward to helping you navigate your claim and get the benefits you need to support yourself.

Call us today at 1-800-568-5700.