Applying for disability can feel daunting and drawn out as it is not a clean-cut process. When dealing with a debilitating disease that is episodic, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), it can be difficult to prove the necessary need for assistance from Social Security. Following such steps as listing symptoms, obtaining medical evidence, and proving long-term effects of MS are all part of the procedure. While it may be extensive, it is possible to get the social security benefits you deserve. With an experienced social security disability attorney in Cleveland, Ohio who can specifically help you with a claim involving multiple sclerosis, there is hope in the application process.
1. List symptoms that meet requirements
Probably the easiest step, listing your symptoms caused by MS helps to show exactly where you stand with your disease, which is a factor that aids in verifying whether you qualify for disability benefits or not. With so many symptoms one can experience, some poignant signs of MS include numbness in arms, legs and hands; speech problems; difficulties with moving bowels and bladder problems; fatigue; trouble with walking or balance; vision problems; hearing loss; and more. While some symptoms may seem a bit vague, in conjunction with other symptoms they may help to demonstrate that MS is present and interfering with your everyday life. After the symptoms have been indicated, those with MS applying for aid may meet one of the Social Security blue book listings of impairments that qualify you for disability. If your symptoms from MS do not meet the listing criteria, you still may be approved based on other factors, like your age, education, work experience, and remaining capacity to do work related activities.
2. Get support from your doctors
The next step in applying for disability is providing medical evidence. The greatest qualifying factor is to have an actual diagnosis of MS from a doctor. This can be determined via a MRI or spinal tap. While there are more tests to detect MS, these are the most commonly used methods. From there, those suffering from MS can call on the assistance of any and all of their doctors that aid in their problems dealing with the disease to submit documentation showing that you do indeed suffer from the sickness and have a history with it.
3. Show examples of how MS affects your ability to work
To further determine eligibility, Social Security will assess your current state with a physical, mental, and sensory Residual Functional Capacity form. Being able to prove that even performing everyday tasks raise a problem for you will help in showing how MS affects your daily life. After the forms have been completed, Social Security utilizes the information given to determine if any jobs are available for you to perform even with your limitations.
