Between 2019–2021, 53.2 million U.S. adults reported having diagnosed arthritis. Arthritis ranks among the top causes for restricted activities, disability, and ongoing pain. Despite available drug treatments, this medical condition is still debilitating and can leave people unable to work. This is why the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes arthritis as a disability.
Can You Get Social Security Disability for Arthritis?
Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are available to people with arthritis if their condition prevents them from working.
However, qualifying for benefits is easier said than done. At Patrick J Kelly Law Office, we help people with arthritis navigate the complex disability benefits system. When applying for financial relief, you may file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI for Arthritis
If you have arthritis, SSDI is available if your condition doesn’t allow you to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). To qualify, you must prove that:
- You have enough work credits through your employment history to be eligible for SSDI
- Your condition meets the SSA’s criteria for disability
SSI for Arthritis
SSI is available to people with arthritis who have limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. To qualify for SSI, you must:
- Show that you have limited income and resources
- Meet the SSA’s criteria for disability (or be blind or 65 or older)
Applying for SSD Benefits With Arthritis
When reviewing a claim, the SSA asks whether a person is able to maintain full-time employment despite their condition. If you are not, you need to submit both medical and non-medical evidence that backs up your claim. This can include:
- Medical records related to your condition
- Lists of all medications and treatments (previous and current) and your response to treatment
- Imaging and lab test results
- Doctor’s notes and medical evaluations
- Records of surgeries or other procedures
- Physical therapy records
- Evidence showing how arthritis affects your daily activities (such as accounts from coworkers, neighbors, family members, and friends)
It’s especially important to include evidence that might show:
- Limited use of your hands, arms, or legs
- Limited ability to sit, stand, or walk
- Problems with fine motor skills, such as difficulty writing or holding utensils or a cup
- Trouble lifting items or lifting items multiple times in a row
- The need for any assistive devices
Social Security Blue Book Criteria for Arthritis
To receive benefits for arthritis, you must satisfy all of the SSA’s eligibility criteria. This includes proving that your disability is expected to interfere with your ability to work for at least 12 months. It also requires meeting set medical criteria.
The SSA references the Blue Book to determine if you have a qualifying condition. The Blue Book is a listing of impairments and their medical requirements for qualifying for SSD. Arthritis falls under two different sections:
- Section 1.00 (for Musculoskeletal Disorders)
- Section 14.09 (under Immune System Disorders, for inflammatory arthritis specifically)
Under section 1.00, a claimant may apply for benefits under subsections 1.15 or 1.18.
What If Your Condition Doesn’t Meet Blue Book Criteria?
If your medical condition doesn’t meet Blue Book criteria, that doesn’t mean you can’t receive disability benefits. If your condition presents symptoms and limitations that are as severe as those found in other listings, you may qualify by equaling a listing. You might also be able to apply under a different body system impacted by your condition.
If your condition doesn’t meet or equal a listing, you may apply for a Medical-Vocational Allowance. When applying for the allowance, you’ll have to go through a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment. This will allow the SSA to determine how much you can do despite your condition. They will also consider factors like your age, education, and transferable job skills.
Types of Arthritis That May Qualify for Disability
Different types of arthritis can qualify for Social Security Disability. Some forms of arthritis are defined as orthopedic disabilities and others as autoimmune disorders.
For example, osteoarthritis and facet arthritis are considered orthopedic impairments. Psoriatic and rheumatic forms of the illness are autoimmune, as is lupus. Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that commonly causes arthritis.
Some types of arthritis that can qualify for disability benefits include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Gout and Pseudogout
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
The following symptoms can help prove your disability claim:
- Severe joint pain and stiffness that restricts daily activities
- Limited range of motion
- Joint swelling and inflammation
- Difficulty walking or using your hands
- Chronic fatigue
- Morning stiffness lasting hours
- Unable to sit or stand for long periods
- Problems with fine motor skills
- Regular need to change positions
- Side effects from medications
- Deformities in major joints
- Regular flare-ups that affect your ability to work
Contact Our Disability Attorney
Our legal team at the Patrick J Kelly Law Office understands the impact arthritis can have on your life. We can help by:
- Evaluating your case
- Gathering crucial medical evidence to support your claim
- Properly documenting your symptoms and limitations
- Filing paperwork on time and meeting deadlines
- Filing an appeal if needed
- Representing you at hearings
Don’t struggle with the disability application process alone. Working with an attorney can significantly improve your chances of getting disability for arthritis. Our experienced team is here for you. We have helped many clients in Alameda and across California secure Social Security Disability benefits for arthritis.
We know what it takes to build a strong case. Call us at (510) 769-4895 for a free consultation. Our disability lawyer will evaluate your situation and explain your options.