At the Des Plaines, Illinois, law firm of Jeffrey A Rabin & Associates, Ltd.we serve SSDI and SSI claimants in Chicago, Illinois, and across the nation. Our firm has effectively assisted numerous clients in pursuing successful Social Security Disability claims related to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Please schedule a free initial consultation with a Chicago arthritis disability lawyer today. You may contact our firm online or you may reach us by phone at 888-529-0600.
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, And SSDI And SSI Claims
Fortunately, for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis suffers the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes arthritis as an impairment that qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, certain standards of disability must be met before Social Security Disability benefits are granted.
In order to qualify for SSDI or SSI, the Social Security Administration guidelines require that rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis cause a major dysfunction of the joints, involving an anatomical deformity, chronic joint pain, and stiffness that results in limited mobility. Limited mobility is defined by the SSA as:
- Involvement of one major peripheral weight-bearing joint (i.e., hip, knee or ankle), resulting in the inability to ambulate effectively
- Involvement of one major peripheral joint in each upper extremity (i.e., shoulder, elbow, or wrist-hand), resulting in the inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively
Typically, the SSA requires evidence such as a physical examination, X-rays, and a detailed description of the joints, including range of motion, condition of the musculature, sensory or reflex changes, circulatory deficits, and laboratory findings to make their benefits eligibility determination. The SSA may also use CAT scans or MRIs if they are available to help make a decision regarding Social Security Disability benefits.
Applying For SSDI Or SSI Benefits In Relation To Cancer
The Social Security Disability application process is intended to allow claimants to handle claims without legal counsel, especially as they relate to listed impairments such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. However, only 35 percent of all Social Security Disability applications are approved at their initial filing. As experienced Social Security Disability lawyers, we understand the application process, what medical information needs to be presented to get Social Security Disability benefits, and how to appropriately fill out application forms for cancer related SSDI or SSI applications. In addition, we have extensive experience handling Requests for Reconsideration and hearings before Administrative Law Judges (ALJ) when SSDI and SSI benefits are denied.
