If you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis which means you are probably so disabled you are unable to go to work, you may qualify for disability benefits to cover you for the financial hardship you have to endure due to multiple sclerosis.
The Initial Application for Disability Benefits for Multiple Sclerosis
There are two types of disability benefits that might be available to any individual who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. These benefits are controlled by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The first benefit is based on Social Security Disability Insurance and whether you are eligible will depend upon how many work credits you have accrued when paying your taxes. The second is based on financial need and is paid by the taxpayer but it is means tested.
Before filing a disability claim you must check to find out if the medical condition is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book as a medical impairment which it is, in section 11.09. Even though its presence implies that you should meet the requirements that make you eligible for disability benefits, this isn’t necessarily the reality, as you may still be told to provide further evidence which supports your disability benefit claim. Whether you are offered disability benefits depends partly on what your physician knows about your multiple sclerosis and if s/he considers you can work.
There are three ways available to apply for Social Security benefits. You can file an application online which is more appropriate to applicants who have adequate work credits. You can also call the Social Security office to book an appointment or go to your local Social Security office without an appointment.
If you are denied disability benefits for multiple sclerosis, you can file a request for reconsideration.
Request for Reconsideration With Multiple Sclerosis
If your Request for Reconsideration is unsuccessful you can appeal through a hearing heard by an administrative law judge (ALJ). This is a long drawn out process and it may be months before you hear the outcome but 63% reach a successful outcome. Before the appeal date you should get more medical tests completed to prove the presence of pain and restricted mobility caused by the multiple sclerosis.
You may decide to get a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment completed by your physician. The form for this procedure can be located on the Social Security Administration’s website. It requires a detailed description of your disability caused by the multiple sclerosis, such as how long you can remain in the squat position and what weight you can carry and for how long.
If your claim for disability benefits has still not attained a successful outcome from the ALJ you may consider turning to the Appeals Council. You are given 60 days following the ALJ decision to request a review at the Appeal’s Council. All the Appeal’s Council does is determine if the ALJ has made an error when finalizing its decision. If you don’t want to accept the Appeal’s Council decision your last chance is the Federal District Court where many claims are won.
Help With Disability Application Process for Multiple Sclerosis
An experienced disability lawyer can work on your behalf to get your disability benefits entitlement and help you file an appeal if your claim is denied.
