Many types of injuries and illnesses can prevent you from working, leading you to seek Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. For example, if you suffer from maladies such as arthritis, back pain, bronchitis, OR kidney disease, you just may qualify for SSD benefits. Psychological disorders, including intellectual disabilities, autism or mental retardation can qualify you for benefits
More than 2 million people apply for SSD benefits annually, but only about 37% of first-time applicants receive approval from the Social Security Administration (SSA). That said, SSA staff and investigators cannot possibly understand the excruciating pain and/or psychological distress you are experiencing.
Musculoskeletal and mental disorders are most common
According to an SSA report released in 2018, the primary reasons workers seek SSD benefits are due to musculoskeletal system/connective tissue disorders and mental disorders including intellectual disabilities.
Here is a list of some of the ailments that may qualify you for receiving SSD benefits:
- Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue: Includes arthritis, back pain, and joint pain
- Mental disorders (including intellectual disability): Includes mood disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autistic disorders, and mental retardation
- Nervous system issues: Includes epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and cerebral palsy
- Digestive system disorders: Includes irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis
- Sense organ issues: Includes visual disorders, blindness, and loss of hearing
- Cardiovascular issues: Includes heart failure, heart disease and coronary artery disease
- Circulatory system disorders: Includes high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes
- Respiratory system issues: Includes bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma
- Genitourinary system issues: Includes chronic kidney disease
- Blood-related and immune system disorders: Includes leukemia, lymphoma, lupus, HIV/AIDS, Raynaud’s syndrome, and scleroderma
If you have a work history or a limited work history, you may not qualify for SSD, however, you might qualify for Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI). Disabled children often qualify for SSI benefits
You devoted decades to your job, but a serious ailment now prevents you from working. Disability benefits are essential for you and your family. Apply for SSD benefits with the help of a skilled attorney.