Can I Receive Social Security Disability Benefits for Arthritis?

May 6, 2019

Arthritis is a constant in the day-to-day lives of many people. Often arthritis is just the result of growing older and the subsequent wear and tear we put on our bodies. In some cases, seemingly unrelated chronic issues, like heart disease or diabetes, can have a hand in causing arthritis. Whatever the cause may be, arthritis is the leading cause of disability among adults in the United States.

But if you experience arthritis while you’re still in the workforce, could you still receive Social Security disability? We’re here to break down some of the minutiae surrounding Social Security disability and how you, as an arthritis sufferer, may be eligible for Indiana disability benefits.

The Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the final decision on any disability benefit application.

The SSA has a slew of requirements a claimant must fulfill in order to qualify for disability benefits. If you want a more specific breakdown of these requirements, consult the SSA’s Blue Book or contact us for a more exhaustive understanding of your situation.

Generally, your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work—even if your employer offers “light work” options. On top of this severity, the condition must persist or be expected to prevent work longer than twelve months.

If you claim to meet these conditions, then the SSA will judge your validity on whether or not you’re actively employed. If you are actively employed, then you’ll more than likely face automatic disqualification based on a clear ability to work and continue to work.

Determining Your Arthritis’s Severity

When we talk about a condition that goes above and beyond merely hindering your ability to do things, you may wonder what that specifically looks like and if that image matches your situation.

A severe bout of arthritis makes even the simplest of motions difficult, including:

• Sitting down in an office chair
• Typing on a computer keyboard
• Walking for any period of time
• Writing by hand or using any fine motor skills

If you find yourself unable to do these activities, then you may have a case of arthritis severe enough to warrant disability benefits.

Again, this all comes down to the SSA’s determination. Even if you clearly demonstrate an inability to complete regular work tasks, the SSA may still deem you capable of light or sedentary work.

Help from an Indiana Disability Benefits Lawyer

Arthritis complicates your life enough without factoring in uncertain income. But you don’t have to carry that uncertainty alone. If you or someone you know suffer from debilitating arthritis, Hensley Legal Group may be able to help. Call us today or contact us online for a free conversation about your claim. Our Indiana disability benefits lawyers are here to help.