530+ Google Reviews
Arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition that impairs your ability to obtain employment or perform substantial gainful activity (SGA). You can get disability for arthritis in the spine if its severity prevents you from working and you meet the basic financial and medical criteria for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
You do not have to manage the filing process or prove the extent of your disability alone. A North Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer can guide you through each phase, from applying to the right program to proving your eligibility and even filing an appeal if the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your initial application.
Arthritis in the Spine is a Musculoskeletal Disorder on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments
The SSA provides a list of diseases and disorders that typically qualify for benefits. Musculoskeletal impairments like osteoarthritis and immune system disorders like inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis are included in the Listing of Impairments because they can cause the following incapacitating symptoms:
- Chronic pain
- Muscle weakness
- Stiff joints
- Swelling and tenderness
Osteoarthritis — one of the most common types of arthritis in the spine — breaks down the cartilage (cushioning) between the bones. The condition is treatable but the damage it causes is irreversible.
Patients with spinal arthritis can also experience a limited range of motion that makes their daily activities difficult or impossible to complete. These symptoms can make it hard to work and support yourself.
Do Disabilities on the Listing of Impairments Automatically Qualify for SSD Benefits?
Identifying your condition on SSA’s list is only the beginning of a long process. Arthritis of the spine must receive a definitive diagnosis, and its severity must also be documented with test results.
If you are pursuing SSD benefits with a Social Security Disability attorney, they can help you prove the limitations that arthritis of the spine imposes on your physical abilities. The SSD application process requires a plethora of personal information and medical evidence. Your lawyer can help you compile the documents you need to submit a complete application.
Know Which Social Security Disability Benefits Program Is Right for You
Social Security Disability (SSD) is an umbrella program that includes two programs. If you are applying for medical and financial benefits, you need to know which program to apply for. In some cases, you could apply for both programs simultaneously and receive concurrent benefits.
To demonstrate basic eligibility, you must have a diagnosed disability expected to last for at least a year or ultimately result in your death.
How to Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
You can apply for SSDI benefits if you have the required work history. You must have worked long enough and recently enough, and participated in the Social Security insurance program while you worked.
A lawyer can help you document your work history and eligibility and ensure the SSA assesses your financial benefits accurately.
How to Qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
You can apply for SSI benefits if you do not have a sufficient employment history for SSDI. To qualify for SSI, you must be able to prove you have:
- Few or limited resources
- No financial support
- A disability or blindness
A disability attorney can help you prove your current physical condition and financial status, including gathering relevant supporting documentation.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (828) 286-3866
What You Need to Know About SSD’s Medical Benefits
Arthritis in the spine can require ongoing treatment, including assistive devices, pain relief medications, and physical therapy to increase range of motion. Required long-term medical treatment can be costly and extensive.
Medicare may cover your medical bills after a waiting period, according to the SSA. Depending on your diagnosis, the waiting period could be waived. Your legal team will clarify the exact medical benefits you qualify for and when you can expect to begin receiving them.
What You Need to Know About SSD’s Financial Benefits
SSDI and SSI recipients receive monthly compensation. The amount will vary by recipient, with SSDI recipients receiving an estimated monthly payment based on work history.
Monthly compensation is paid electronically, typically by direct deposit, according to the SSA. A lawyer can help you understand this requirement and ensure you receive your monthly payments appropriately.
Is it Worth Hiring an SSD Attorney to Get Disability Benefits for Arthritis in the Spine?
Getting SSDI or SSI benefits can take time and may require repeated appeals. It can take months to get through the application process and start receiving benefits. If a North Carolina Social Security Disability attorney represents you, they can:
- Ensure you apply for the right SSD program
- Check your application for completeness and accuracy
- Document your medical condition, physical limitations, and financial qualifications
- Attach the required personal information and medical documentation
If your initial disability claim receives a denial, your attorney can guide you through the phases of the appeals process and keep fighting for the benefits you need and deserve.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer?
You can hire an SSD lawyer to represent you without a hefty retainer. Most require no upfront or out-of-pocket expenses. Plus, they will cover all the details of preparing your claim, and you will only compensate the law firm when you receive benefits. If you do not receive a financial award, you will not owe any fees.
Get a Free Review of Your Disability Claim Now
Applying for SSI or SSDI benefits can be a frustrating process. However, it does not have to be one you handle alone. Our SSD attorneys can clarify whether you can get disability for arthritis in the spine and help you at each step of your disability application.
At Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, one of our team members will review your claim at no cost or obligation. Contact our consultation team today.
