Those experiencing neuropathy may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. When going through the application process for SSD with neuropathy, you will need to submit an application showing you meet the Blue Book as well as provide evidence that you medically qualify. You will also need to supply information about your work history and income. If denied, you will then need to file an appeal.
Neuropathy can be a painful nuisance that affects your ability to perform routine daily tasks. If it is so severe that it affects your ability to work and earn a living, you may qualify for disability benefits administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Neuropathy is a generalized term that refers to various diseases and/or malfunctions of the peripheral nervous system. A single body part, such as the hands or feet could be affected, or your entire body could be impacted.
How to Initially Apply For Disability With Neuropathy
The claims process can be started online at on the SSA’s site or over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 and speaking with a representative. You will need to complete the form in detail and provide supporting documentation, specifically medical evidence to support your claim.
The SSA uses a medical guide, which is called the Blue Book, to determine if a claimant qualifies for disability benefits. The Blue Book has listings for different disabling conditions and has the specific medical criteria that must be met for a claimant to qualify per the listing.
Peripheral neuropathy claims are considered using one of two impairment listings, which are found in Section 9.08 and Section 11.14. Section 9.08 is for neuropathy that is in conjunction with diabetes mellitus.
To meet the listing criteria, you must have been diagnosed with diabetes and have neuropathy with tremor, paralysis, ataxia, or involuntary movement of two of your legs or arms that render you unable to perform fine and gross motor movements and affecting standing and walking. Section 11.14 directly addresses peripheral neuropathies.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have earned enough work credits. That means, you must have worked the equivalent of five years full-time out of the last 10 years. Your monthly benefits are based on your work earnings.
To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is needs-based, you will need to provide proof of income and resources to show that you meet the specific criteria to qualify with a financial need.
If your claim for disability benefits for neuropathy is denied, you will receive a denial notice from the SSA. It will explain why your claim was denied, so you can gather additional information and documentation.
It will also specify a deadline for you to file a request for reconsideration, which is also called an appeal. If you wait until the deadline has passed, you will have to file a new claim and restart the process.
Request for Reconsideration with Neuropathy
If you have had your disability claim for neuropathy denied, you will need to file your appeal by the deadline and provide additional supporting evidence. You may benefit from including a residual functional capacity (RFC) form completed by your physician. This form details what you can and cannot do, so the disability examiner will be able to determine if you are capable of working, and if so, what kind of job you can do.
If your claim is once again denied during the request for reconsideration, you will want to ask for a hearing before an administrative law judge. Your chances of your claim being approved increase significantly at the hearing level.
If your claim is denied again by the administrative law judge, you can once again appeal. Your claim can advance to the appeals council and even on to federal district court for review.
Help with a Disability Application for Neuropathy
Disability claims can be complicated. You can benefit by enlisting the help of a Social Security Disability lawyer. An attorney may increase the likelihood of your claim being approved. Complete a Free Case Evaluation today, so you can make sure your claim is on the right track.
