There was a time after your multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis when you were able to work. The medications prescribed by your doctor slowed down the progress of your disease or put your physical symptoms in remission. You didn’t consider applying for Social Security disability then because you were not disabled.
But Now Things Have Changed
Now, you are unable to do your job—or any other job. Your MS symptoms keep you from working and earning a living. Your doctor has suggested you to apply for Social Security disability but you are hesitant. You may have questions such as:
- Will I qualify?
You may qualify for Social Security disability if you meet the eligibility requirements described in Section 11.09 of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book. Pursuant to that criterion, you may qualify for Social Security disability if you have multiple sclerosis with at least one of the following:
- Disorganization of motor function in two extremities
- Visual or mental impairment. This may include, for example, loss of visual acuity, contraction of the visual field, loss of visual efficiency or psychological or behavior abnormalities as those terms are used by the SSA.
- Significant, reproducible fatigue of motor function with substantial muscle weakness on repetitive activity, demonstrated on physical examination, resulting from neurological dysfunction in areas of the central nervous system known to be pathologically involved by the multiple sclerosis processes.
If you think that you qualify then you will have to convince the SSA of that by filing a complete application.
- What difference will Social Security disability make in my life?
You have probably never applied for disability benefits before and you may be wondering whether it is important to do so now. Social Security disability may not replace your income, but it can provide you with some monthly income to meet your basic needs. It may provide you peace of mind and help pay for your things such as housing and food while you concentrate on taking care of your physical needs.
Ready to Apply? Be Prepared
Not everyone with MS is going to qualify for Social Security disability, but you might. In order to prove your eligibility to the SSA it is important to complete a full and accurate application that documents your condition. You will need things such as medical test results, doctors’ notes, and a comprehensive work history in order to have your application approved and to get the benefits that you deserve. For more information on how to complete your application, please browse our related links and start a live chat with us today.
by Paul B. Burkhalter Managing Partner of Morgan Weisbrod , Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.
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