There are medical conditions that will automatically qualify someone to receive Social Security disability benefits, but osteoarthritis isn’t one of them. In most cases in order to quality for Social Security disability benefits automatically you must have a terminal or life-threatening condition. But it is possible to receive Social Security disability benefits if you have osteoarthritis and you can’t work because of it.

How to Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits

The conditions that will quality someone to receive disability benefits automatically are listed on the Compassionate Allowance list. If you have a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowance list as long as you submit a medical diagnosis proving you have been diagnosed with that condition you will be approved for disability benefits.

When you apply for disability benefit and you have a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowance list your application will be flagged by the SSA’s computer system. Any application where the person has a condition that is on the Compassionate Allowance list will be pushed to the head of the line for fast processing. A quick approval is given and most people start receiving benefits in just a few weeks.

Does Osteoarthritis Automatically Qualify For Disability Benefits?

Osteoarthritis is not on the Compassionate Allowance list. But it is possible to quality for Social Security disability benefits with osteoarthritis. You get approved for disability benefits you will need to submit medical evidence showing that you have at least one of these:

• Persistent inflammation or persistent deformity of one or more major peripheral weight-bearing joints resulting in the inability to ambulate effectively or one or more peripheral joints in each upper extremity resulting in the inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively
• Inflammation or deformity in one or more peripheral joints with involvement of two or more body systems or organs with one of the organs or body systems involved in at least a moderate level of severity and at least two constitutional symptoms or sings (such as fatigue or fever).
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Repeated manifestations of inflammatory arthritis with at least two constitutional symptoms (such as limitations of daily activities or maintaining social functioning).

You will also need to include medical evidence like X-rays, MRIs, or other tests and treatment records.
Many people have their applications denied the first time they apply for Social Security disability benefits. If your application is denied you can appeal the denial and keep trying to get approved for benefits.

Get Help With Your Claim

If your application for disability benefits was denied you should speak with a Social Security disability attorney to find out what you need to amend on the application to get approved at the appeal. And if you haven’t applied for disability benefits yet you should speak with a disability attorney to find out more about what medical evidence you need to submit. A disability attorney can also answer your questions about the application process. Fill out a Free Case Evaluation today to get connected with an independent Social Security disability lawyer who may be able to help with your case.