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A disability or life-altering disease can make it challenging to work. SSD benefits are designed to supplement a worker’s income when they are unable to work. Many disabilities are covered under SSD. But, unfortunately, qualifying for benefits can sometimes be a job of its own.
If you have MS and are having trouble applying for or getting your SSD benefits, we can help. Contact a disability lawyer at Pond Lehocky for a free consultation.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder. It affects the central nervous system. It causes the immune system to attack the protective sheath that covers nerve fibers. This can lead to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. Over time, MS can cause permanent damage or deterioration of the nerves themselves.
Individuals with MS may have trouble walking. They may experience numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and cognitive impairment. These symptoms can happen all at once, or they may come and go with little warning.
Can You Get Social Security Disability for Multiple Sclerosis?
Yes. SSD benefits are only available to those who are unable to work due to their disability. Simply put, those with mild cases that do not inhibit their ability to find or hold a job will likely not qualify. However, many individuals with MS will qualify. This is true if their condition affects their ability to control their movements.
The SSA’s Disability Criteria for Multiple Sclerosis Claims
To qualify for MS SSD benefits, the SSA requires you to show how it affects your ability to work. Specifically, you’ll need to prove that:
- Your motor function is affected in at least two extremities (such as your arms or legs), or
- Your ability to walk, stand, or have normal use of your arms has been impacted. This is true even if these limitations are intermittent, or
- You have physical limitations in combination with cognitive limitations. These include understanding or applying information, interacting with others, concentrating, or managing yourself.
It’s also important to understand the limitations of SSD eligibility before you apply. For example, some individuals may be required to have worked for a certain number of years. Or they have been living with their condition for a specified amount of time. If you have questions about SSD benefits, contact Pond Lehocky for a free evaluation. We can help you determine if you’re eligible and help you file.
How Multiple Sclerosis Can Impact Your Ability to Work
MS has the potential to affect the entire body. For many, this may display as the inability to rely on their arms, hands, legs, or feet to walk, stand, or lift. They may also experience a range of cognitive issues. These include memory loss, the inability to concentrate, tremors, or incontinence.
Even just experiencing a few of these symptoms can be enough to limit your ability to find work. The unpredictability of symptoms can prevent some people from holding a steady job.
Medical Evidence You Need for a Multiple Sclerosis Claim
To file for disability, start gathering medical records and other evidence. This shows how it may affect your ability to work. This may include:
- A medical diagnosis of MS by a doctor
- MRI results that confirm your diagnosis
- Neurology reports that detail the progress of your condition
- Functional assessments that measure your physical or cognitive limitations due to the disease
- Treatment history, including prescriptions or rehabilitation records
- Statements from doctors, employers, and others that show how your condition affects you
In addition to the records you keep, you also need to follow up on your appointments and treatments. Doing so will help show that you are doing everything you can to maintain your ability to work.
Why You Need a Disability Lawyer for a Multiple Sclerosis Claim
A disability lawyer is one of the most powerful resources you can have in your corner. When our lawyers take on you as a client, we start by compiling evidence that supports your claim. We work with your doctors, previous employers, and caretakers to secure medical records. We will draft a persuasive narrative that advocates your need for benefits.
We also handle any paperwork that is required to file your claim. We will represent you in an appeal if you are denied benefits. This can increase your chances of approval when compared to those who attempt to file on their own.
Common Reasons SSD Claims for Multiple Sclerosis Are Denied
While many individuals with MS file for SSD, only about 40% are approved. This may not be because they are ineligible for benefits. It may be that their application lacked the right paperwork or supporting evidence.
Here are a few of the most common reasons why your claim might have been denied:
- You didn’t meet the SSA’s listing criteria.
- You have gaps in your medical records or treatment.
- Your doctor’s or caretaker’s statements are unclear or inconsistent.
- You missed filing deadlines or failed to respond to communication from the SSA.
- There’s a lack of verified evidence that supports your inability to work due to your MS.
All of these reasons and many others may raise questions with the SSA. A disability attorney can help you represent your limitations and need for benefits.
Talk to an SSD Lawyer for Help with Your Multiple Sclerosis Claim
For those with MS, the process for filing for SSD benefits can be complex, and many things can go wrong along the way. But the good news is that you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you are beginning the filing process or you need to appeal, Pond Lehocky has your back.
For over 15 years, our disability lawyers have helped clients secure disability status. We fight to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
