Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is one of the most extensive federal programs that provides financial assistance to people who cannot work due to a disability. Managed by the Social Security Administration, in the simplest terms, it is a payroll tax-funded federal insurance program of the U.S. government.
As of the last program “snapshot” in February 2023, more than 63 million Americans receive monthly Social Security benefits. While the lion’s share goes to retirees at 78%, 13.2% goes to disabled workers, and the remaining 8.8% goes to survivors of deceased workers. Of the roughly 8.7 million disabled workers and their family members who receive SSDI payments, the average monthly benefit is $1,340.70.
Are you wondering if you can collect Social Security Disability Insurance? Impairments that qualify for Social Security Disability in Georgia run the gamut from cancer to loss of vision. But, for this article, we will only tackle the three most common conditions. In the event that they apply to you or a loved one, you may require assistance to pursue Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
Experienced Georgia SSDI attorneys, like John Edmonson of The Edmonson Law Firm, stand at the ready to serve you and answer any questions you may have.
Musculoskeletal System Disorders That Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance
Defined by the Social Security Administration as “disorders of the skeletal spine (vertebral column) or of the upper or lower extremities that affect musculoskeletal functioning.”
This may involve the bony structures, ligaments, and discs of the spine, as well as bones, major joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, or other soft tissues. To evaluate your condition, the SSA requires:
Objective medical evidence from a qualified medical professional confirming that you have a medically determinable musculoskeletal disorder.
Information from medical and nonmedical sources describing how your condition impacts your ability to function in daily life.
Results from a physical examination, imaging, or other diagnostic tests.
Surgical reports and details on your responses to treatment.
A list of assistive devices you use, such as a wheelchair, walker, or prosthetic device.
They will take all of this information and more into account when determining whether or not you are eligible for Social Security Disability benefits and how much you are due each month. You’ll want to ensure you have a solid case before submitting it to the SSA, and the SSDI attorneys at The Edmonson Law Firm can help you prepare and prove your disorders that qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance. If you’ve been denied, we can assist you in reapplying.
Mental Disorders That Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated one in five adults live with mental illness. The Social Security Administration outlines mental disorders that could qualify for SSDI – if they are “serious and persistent” in 11 categories that include:
Neurocognitive disorders
Schizophrenia Spectrum and other psychotic disorders
Depressive, Bipolar and related disorders
Intellectual disorder
Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive disorders
Somatic Symptom and related disorders
Personality and Impulse-Control disorders
Autism Spectrum disorder
Neurodevelopmental disorders
Eating disorders
Trauma and Stressor-related disorders
Evidence required to evaluate your mental disorder includes:
Objective medical evidence from an acceptable medical source that confirms you have a medically determinable mental disorder and explains its severity.
Relevant medical records from your physician, psychologist, or other healthcare providers, including details about your symptoms, medical history, psychological testing, medications, and treatments.
Evidence of daily functioning, provided by you and those who know you, describing how your mental disorder impacts your everyday life.
Additional records from school, vocational training, work, or work-related programs that highlight the challenges caused by your condition.
In other words, the Social Security Administration requires a comprehensive understanding of your mental health. This includes medical evidence, insights into your daily life, and documentation from educational or professional environments to determine your eligibility for benefits.
This is another area where Social Security Disability Insurance attorney John Edmonson can be of great assistance in helping you require the evidence needed and advocate on your behalf.
Neurological Disorders That Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance
The Social Security Administration defines disabilities under the Neurological category as:
Epilepsy
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Parkinson’s Syndrome
Coma
Persistent Vegetative State (PVS)
There are also neurological disorders that cause disorganization of motor function, bulbar and neuromuscular dysfunction, communication impairment, or a combination of limitations in physical and mental functioning, such as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury, or Huntington’s disease.
To support the diagnosis and severity of your neurological disorder, the SSA requires both medical and non-medical evidence. This includes signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings that demonstrate how your disorder affects your daily life. Additionally, there must be clear proof that limitations from your neurological disorder persist, even when you follow prescribed treatments.
The extent of your limitations will play a key role in determining the benefits you may qualify for. Our team is here to help you gather and present the necessary evidence to maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.
Remaining List of Impairments That Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance
Additional disability categories that could qualify you to receive Social Security Disability Insurance in Georgia include:
Special Senses and Speech Disorders
Respiratory Disorders
Cardiovascular System Disorders
Digestive System Disorders
Genitourinary Disorders
Hematological Disorders
Skin Disorders
Endocrine Disorders
Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
Immune System Disorders
To learn what falls under each category and the evidence required to apply for SSDI under each, visit the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments page.
With the right information and support system, you can get the help you need. Georgia's Hometown Law Firm is committed to standing by your side as you navigate your SSDI claim. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—we are here to assist you in your journey toward mental health stability and financial security.
For legal assistance with your SSDI claim, call The Edmonson Law Firm at (678) 271-9111, book a FREE CONSULTATION online, or fill out our hassle-free SSDI questionnaire.
Disclaimer: Please remember that this post offers a general overview and should not be considered as legal advice. Always consult with an experienced attorney for legal guidance.
Comments