If you struggle with back pain, you know how inconvenient and painful it can be. Back problems that interfere with your everyday routine and prevent you from working are life-changing. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA determines whether your back problems and back pain are severe enough to qualify you for SSDI.
Individuals who have enough work credits and have paid enough taxes may be eligible for SSDI benefits if certain criteria are met. Often, the disabled individual's dependents are also eligible for benefits.
What Back Conditions Qualify For Disability?
Some back issues happen as a result of aging. Others occur prematurely due to work injuries, diseases, or accidents.
The disability examiner may approve back conditions such as:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Arachnoiditis
- Degenerative disc disorder
- Spondylitis
- Nerve root compression
- Scoliosis
- Herniated discs
- Spondylolisthesis
- Spinal stenosis.
The SSA uses a Blue Book medical guide to determine whether a claimant is eligible for disability benefits. There are sections dedicated to various bodily systems. Each list includes potentially disabling conditions and the set of criteria that must be met for a disability claim to be accepted.
The Disability Claims Process
It is common for disability claims to be denied during the initial review. If your claim is denied, you will be notified in writing. The letter will outline why your claim was denied and how long you have to submit a request for reevaluation.
You may request a hearing before an administrative law judge, if your claim is again denied during the reconsideration phase. It is crucial to support your claim with as much supporting evidence and documentation as possible.
Using A Medical-Vocational Allowance
If you do not meet the specific requirements, you may still be eligible for disability benefits through a medical-vocational allowance. This method considers your age, employment history, useful skills, academic background, medical conditions, etc.
Starting A Disability Claim For Back Pain
It can be difficult to prove that your back pain is incapacitating enough to qualify for social security disability benefits. You may want to discuss this with a social security disability lawyer to assist you with the procedure.
A disability lawyer can assist you in gathering the evidence required to demonstrate that your back problem is eligible for disability benefits. If you are initially rejected disability benefits, an attorney may be able to assist you with the appeals process. Remember that having an attorney on your side increases your chances of a successful disability claim.
Enlist The Help Of A Lawyer
When filing a disability claim for back pain, a disability lawyer can be very beneficial.
According to research, 34% of claimants without legal representation qualified for disability benefits at some point during the claims process. In comparison, an estimated 60% of claimants who hire disability lawyers are approved for benefits at some point in the claims process.
Are you interested in learning how to file a VA claim for disability compensation? Read our blog post at Disability Help to learn more.
