Multiple Sclerosis and Disability Benefits
About 400,000 individuals living in the United States suffer from the debilitating disease known as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disease that affects your central nervous system. It causes problems with nerve impulses and the brain being able to communicate with the body. This can greatly impact the ability to complete everyday tasks, including work. Continue reading below to view an infographic on understanding Multiple Sclerosis.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has two disability benefit programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You may be eligible for disability benefits with either or both the SSDI and the SSI programs due to MS.
This is an example of Multiple Sclerosis, or MS, an autoimmune disease. The nerves of the brain and spinal cord are damaged by one’s own immune system. This results in loss of muscle control, vision and balance.
Multiple Sclerosis has the ability to keep individuals from working or completing everyday tasks. Patients will need medications, which may be very expensive, to help them manage their symptoms. According to a study conducted by Oregon State University and Oregon Health and Science University, the annual average price for drugs associated with MS is around $60,000. When you consider the cost of medicine and daily living expenses such as food, utilities, and housing, it can be very difficult for individuals who have MS to manage. This is why it is important to have representation, such as what Disability Support Services provides, to help with the application process when applying for SSDI and SSI benefits.
Qualifying Medically
To be eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits, the condition and symptoms as described in your medical records must meet or equal the criteria that the SSA has defined for the diagnosis in question. In other words, you will need to provide the SSA evidence from a medical professional proving that you have MS and that your condition and symptoms meet or equal the SSA’s criteria.
If you are unable to work but you still do not meet the listed criteria, you still have options. You may be approved based on the limitations to daily activity do to MS. To find out if your diagnosis with MS may qualify you for SSDI or SSI benefits contact Disability Support Services. We will go over your case and explain to you your options. The application process can be difficult, time-consuming and may take months or even years. To lessen your burden with this process, contact us today.
Multiple Sclerosis – An infographic by MS
