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If you or someone you love were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you know how hard it is to do daily tasks. The tremors, stiffness, and slow movements can make it impossible to hold down a job. That’s where Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can help.
Unfortunately, getting approved for SSD isn’t always easy. Having a Parkinson’s disease disability lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It happens when certain nerve cells in the brain break down or die.
These cells normally help control movement by producing a chemical called dopamine. This results in a lack of dopamine in the brain. This causes movement issues like shaking and problems with balance.
People with Parkinson’s disease may also experience stiffness in their limbs. Parkinson’s is progressive, and there is no cure. Medication can help you manage symptoms, but over time, symptoms will get worse.
Can You Get Social Security Disability for Parkinson’s Disease?
It is possible to get SSD benefits if you have Parkinson’s disease, but approval can be a challenge. You’ll need to be able to show the SSA that your Parkinson’s symptoms are debilitating. Therefore, you are unable to do your job or any other type of work. It isn’t uncommon to be denied the first time you apply.
Hiring an experienced SSD attorney can help you avoid common filing mistakes. We can also help you understand the rules that govern the claims process. Even if you’ve been previously denied, our experienced attorneys can help. We can help you file an initial claim or help you with an appeal.
The SSA’s Disability Criteria for Parkinson’s Disease Claims
The SSA has a list of disabling medical conditions. Parkinson’s disease is included in “Listing 11.06 – Parkinsonian Syndrome.” Per this section, you need to meet the following requirements:
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Disorganization of motor function in two extremities (like an arm and a leg, or both legs). This affects the ability to stand up or sit down, balance or stand while walking, or use the arms.
OR
- Marked limitation in physical functioning and at least one of the following:
- Cognitive issues, like understanding, remembering, or applying information on the job
- Trouble interacting with others
- Difficulty with concentration, or an inability to keep up the expected work pace
- Being unable to manage yourself at work
Even if you don’t meet the exact criteria in the listing, you might still qualify. It is based on how your condition limits your daily life and ability to work.
How Parkinson’s Disease Can Impact Your Ability to Work
Many people think Parkinson’s disease gives you shaky hands or uncontrolled reflexes. People suffering from Parkinson’s know it is a much more debilitating disease. Parkinson’s disease can cause fatigue, depression, and cognitive issues.
A person with a Parkinson’s diagnosis may find that everyday tasks are difficult and pose a safety risk. At the disease’s onset, a person may still be able to work for several years. Parkinson’s is progressive. This means someone with Parkinson’s disease will eventually lose functioning. This will impact their ability to work.
Medical Evidence You Need for a Parkinson’s Disease Claim
When you apply for SSD benefits, you’ll need strong medical evidence to support your claim. This includes:
- A diagnosis from a neurologist
- Medical records showing your symptoms and how they’ve changed over time
- Test results, like brain scans
- Doctor’s and practitioner’s notes about your treatment and medications
- Statements from your doctor about how Parkinson’s affects your life and ability to work
- Statements from loved ones and coworkers about your inability to work
- Statements on how loved ones and coworkers saw your disease affect you over time
You may be asked to be examined by a doctor of the Social Security Administration’s choosing. If you don’t comply with this exam, you could be denied benefits.
Sometimes, the SSA will ask you to attend a special exam called a Consultative Examination (CE). This helps them understand how severe your condition is.
Why You Need a Disability Lawyer for a Parkinson’s Disease Claim
Filing for SSD benefits is a long and sometimes confusing process. If you’re already suffering and unable to work, hiring a disability lawyer can help make it easier. At Pond Lehocky Disability, our attorneys help by:
- Protecting your claim from clerical errors
- Helping you get the necessary medical records required for your claim
- Ensuring your claim is filled out in its entirety
- Representing you at hearings if your claim is denied, and helping you with an appeal
Having a lawyer doesn’t guarantee approval. But it can help you prevent delays and know the correct steps. This is especially true if you’ve previously been denied.
Common Reasons SSD Claims for Parkinson’s Disease Are Denied
It is not uncommon that SSD claims for Parkinson’s disease are denied the first time they are filed. Common reasons for denials include:
- Failure to provide enough medical evidence to support your claim
- Forms that are incomplete or contain errors
- Not filing your forms on time or missing deadlines to respond or present yourself for an exam
- Discrepency about whether or not you can do some type of work (even if it is not your current job)
- Not following your doctor’s prescribed course of treatment
Even if you’ve been denied, there’s still a chance you could be approved. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the appeals process. It can also strengthen your chances of getting your benefits.
Talk to an SSD Lawyer for Help with Your Parkinson's Disease Claim
If Parkinson’s disease has made it impossible for you to keep working, you don’t have to face Social Security alone. At Pond Lehocky Disability, our skilled team will fight to help you get the benefits you need.
Contact us today to learn how we can help. Whether you’re just starting your application process or were denied, we’re here to support you.
