Articles
Social Security Disability Benefits – General Overview
The Social Security Administration pays benefits under two programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Social Security disability benefits are available for people who are found eligible by the Social Security Administration.
Do I Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
To be considered “disabled” by the Social Security Administration, you must have a disease or condition which has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months, or result in death. This disease or condition must make you unable to do any of your past work.
I Can Still Do Some Household Chores. Am I Qualified for Social Security Disability Benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at many pieces of information when deciding whether or not you meet the requirements for Social Security disability benefits. The SSA reviews your medical records. In addition, the SSA requires you to complete forms which ask questions about the activities you do during the day (“activities of daily living” or “ADL’s”).
How Could They Deny Me?
You are not the only one who opened a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and found a Notice of Decision denying your application for Social Security disability benefits.
Nor, are you the only one who received a denial letter after you appealed the denial you received in your Notice of Decision.
Do I Need An Attorney?
There is no regulation which states you need an attorney. However, you have a significantly better chance of winning your claim for Social Security disability benefits if you have an attorney representing you.
Back Pain
As a nurse, and an attorney who focuses solely on assisting people with claims for Social Security disability benefits, I receive a significant number of phone calls, online inquiries, and texts from people with back pain. One of the most common causes of long term disability is back pain or other musculoskeletal problem, whether caused by arthritis, trauma, or other bone and joint problems.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract; that is, anywhere from the mouth to the anus. Crohn’s causes severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. Some people with Crohn’s also experience rectal bleeding, weight loss, fever, arthritis, and skin problems.
Mental Illness and Social Security Disability Benefits
If you are applying for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI and/or SSI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not look favorably on claims for disability related to mental illness, where the claimant has not used psychotropic medication in an effort to control symptoms.