Does your loved one’s muscular dystrophy qualify for federal benefits based on how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability? In order to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits or Supplemental Security Insurance benefits, the SSA states that the disease must cause substantial impairment that limits the applicant’s ability to perform income-generating activities.
Disabling Effects of Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neurological impairment recognized by the federal government as causing permanent disability. Not every person diagnosed with this condition will qualify for SSD benefits, however. Upon thorough evaluation, the SSA must receive evidence that the condition is severe enough to restrict activities significantly. Patients with muscular dystrophy characteristically experience movement problems in the hands, arms, and fingers, impairing dexterity and even causing paralysis and sensory dysfunction.
A person with muscular dystrophy who qualifies for SSD benefits may exhibit several of the following physical limitations:
- Trouble walking
- Unsteady gait
- Pain while sitting
- Difficulty standing for extended periods
- Inability to lift
- Clumsiness
- Pain while reaching or carrying
- Inability to type
- Breathing trouble
- Learning disabilities
- Curvature of the spine
- Pain while climbing or descending stairs
- Trouble speaking or hearing
- Inability to read
Hiring an Attorney to Prove Muscular Dystrophy Disability
The SSA needs to see unquestionable proof that the condition of muscular dystrophy is preventing the applicant from performing job duties. The health problems must render the worker unable to complete a variety of income-generating activities, not just the type of work he or she has been performing in the past.
If you have muscular dystrophy and are applying for SSD, it is crucial to receiving benefits that you provide documentation of the disease’s effects on your body through physician reports and approvals. If the language is not clear or qualified medical experts are not represented in support of the applicant, the request for benefits is likely to be denied.
Barriers to Muscular Dystrophy Benefits
The disabled muscular dystrophy patient must not currently be engaged in substantial gainful activity. In fact, earning any amount greater than the limits set by the SSA will disqualify you from consideration entirely.
Even if you do qualify, failure to provide hard proof of disability could force the SSA to deny your claim. Applicants who do meet the criteria must take caution during the application process to ensure none of the requested documentation is overlooked. Hiring a skilled SSD attorney to handle your request for muscular dystrophy benefits can make all the difference in your outcome. Consider filing with an attorney to minimize your chances of error and get your benefits approved sooner.
The requirements may change, so it is important to consult a skilled SSD lawyer before submitting your application or appeal paperwork. To find a competent, experienced legal professional in your area, please search our legal directory.