Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary physical movements or vocal sounds. These actions may include kicking, facial tics, sudden jerking movements, shouts, grunts, or many other fits. In some cases, the symptoms can be quite severe, including involuntary jumping or biting, and can put the individual’s safety and well being in danger.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Tourette’s Syndrome
Many people suffering from Tourette’s syndrome are able to control and manage their symptoms with the help of therapy and medications. When the symptoms are severe, this is not always possible, and the symptoms make it difficult or impossible for an individual to work. Fortunately, there are several ways in which an individual may be approved for Social Security Disability benefits if they cannot work due to Tourette’s syndrome.
Ways to Qualify for SSD Benefits Due to Tourette’s Syndrome
For adults suffering from Tourette’s syndrome, the SSA does not have a standard set of guidelines pertaining to this condition. Instead, they evaluate the results found in one of two assessments:
- The Physical Residual Functional Capacity Assessment
The physical residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment measures an individual’s physical ability to complete common workplace tasks. An individual with severe Tourette’s syndrome symptoms may be found unable to safely perform many tasks such as lifting heavy objects or working around dangerous machinery.
- The Mental Residual Functional Capacity Assessment
The mental RFC evaluates an individual’s ability to mentally handle job-related activities. Tourette’s syndrome may make it difficult for an adult to concentrate on tasks, socialize with others, or follow directions.
Children Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits for Tourette’s
When it comes to children with Tourette’s syndrome, the guidelines are someone different. To be eligible for benefits, a child must meet one of the following requirements:
- Suffer ongoing, involuntary repetitive motor movements that affect multiple muscle groups and suffer from vocal tics
- Have significant ongoing difficulty, caused by Tourette’s syndrome, with at least one of the following areas:
- Speech
- Vision
- Hearing
- Movement and control of the body
- Use of an arm or leg
- Obsessive hypochondria
- Physical sensation
- Digestion
OR
The child must also have severe difficulties, for their age group, in at least two of the following areas:
- Cognitive or communicative function
- Social functioning
- Maintaining concentration, pace, or persistence
- Personal functioning
Hiring a Social Security Disability Attorney before Applying for SSD Benefits
In order to better your chances of receiving approval for benefits, and avoid costly common mistakes on your application, it is recommended that you enlist the guidance and assistance of an experienced Social Security Disability attorney. They do not charge anything upfront; they are paid on a contingency basis and are not paid unless you are successfully awarded benefits.
