Can You Get Disability for Crohn’s Disease?

 Posted on January 25, 2024 in Social Security Disability

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation and damage to the digestive tract. It is not uncommon for people to be unable to complete tasks because of this. Crohn’s is considered a disability under Social Security law if severe enough to prevent someone from working. A Texas disability lawyer may be able to help you if your condition prevents you from doing work-related tasks.

What Qualifies as Disabled Under Social Security?

To get Social Security disability benefits for Crohn’s disease, your symptoms must prevent you from working and be expected to last at least one year. Specific criteria the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to evaluate digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease include:

• Number of bowel movements per day and presence of fecal incontinence
• Side effects from treatments impacting the ability to work
• Anemia or malnutrition
• Fistulas, abdominal masses, or intestinal obstructions
• Multiple hospitalizations or surgeries for Crohn’s

If your Crohn’s disease meets Social Security’s definition of disability, you may qualify for monthly cash assistance through SSDI or SSI disability programs.

Submitting an Application

When applying, be prepared to provide extensive medical records from your doctors detailing your Crohn’s symptoms, diagnostic test results, and treatments over the last 12 months. Your doctor can complete questionnaires about how your condition impacts basic work activities. Working with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer improves your odds of approval without the need for a hearing.

Hearings and Denials

If your initial Crohn’s disease disability claim gets denied, don’t give up. Around 70% of applicants end up getting approved after going through the entire appeals process. An administrative law judge will oversee your hearing, review evidence, and question you about your symptoms. Hearings have the highest approval rating, especially when using a disability lawyer.

Getting Help from CDA

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation has advocates to help patients apply for disability benefits. They can assist you in providing adequate documentation and navigating the system. Support groups can also connect you with others struggling with severe Crohn’s disease.

Contact an Arlington, TX Disability Lawyer

Coping with Crohn’s while unable to work presents numerous challenges. If you get denied disability for your condition, a Denton, TX disability attorney can potentially help you. While there are no guarantees, some evidence may be lacking in your claim, and you may have the potential to appeal. Call The Law Offices of Coats & Todd at 972-671-9922 for a free case evaluation.