Social Security Disability Benefits for Multiple Sclerosis

Lawyers Helping People With MS Apply for SSDI Benefits in Plano and Dallas County

Of the different medical conditions that affect someone's ability to perform daily tasks both in the workplace and in their personal lives, multiple sclerosis is among the most serious. This neurological disorder can affect a person in many ways, and it may lead to issues such as dizziness, fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulties with balance and coordination, blurred or double vision, hearing impairment, slurred speech, or depression. People with MS may be unable to perform steady work, and if they cannot earn sufficient income to provide for their needs, they may be able to receive financial assistance through Social Security.

While MS is known to be a serious condition that can affect a person's ability to work, it is important to provide the proper evidence and documentation in an application for disability through Social Security. At the Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our attorneys can make sure you follow the correct procedures during the disability application process, and we will help you address any issues that may affect your ability to receive benefits, including pursuing federal appeals of denied claims.

Qualifying for Disability With MS

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, inflammatory disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the sheaths around the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The effects of this disorder can vary significantly, and while some may experience relatively mild symptoms, others may suffer from severe physical and mental conditions that affect their ability to perform work-related tasks and daily activities. In milder cases, a person may experience temporary or short-term issues, after which they may partially or fully recover. In more serious cases, a person may suffer a steady progression of symptoms with little or no periods of recovery or remission.

The Social Security Administration's listing of impairments states that a person with MS is disabled if they have experienced interference with the ability to use two extremities, including the legs, arms, wrists, hands, or fingers. These issues must have led to an extreme limitation of a person's ability to maintain the proper balance while they are walking or standing, move from a seated position to standing up, or use their upper extremities to perform work-related tasks.

The listing of impairments also states that MS is considered to be a disability if it has caused a "marked" limitation in both physical and mental functions. Along with the issues described above, limitations on physical functions may include problems with vision or hearing, as well as pain and fatigue that affect a person's capability of performing physical activities while working. Similarly, there must be a "marked" mental limitation in either understanding, remembering, or applying information; interacting with others; concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or adapting or managing oneself.

Contact Our Allen, TX Social Security Disability Attorneys

If you have been able to work consistently, but the symptoms of multiple sclerosis have limited your ability to maintain employment, you may qualify for benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). On the other hand, if you have suffered from MS throughout your life and have been unable to gain the necessary work experience, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The Law Offices of Coats & Todd can help you determine your options for receiving disability benefits, and we will help you gather and submit the necessary documentation during the application process. To get legal help with your disability application or appeal the denial of benefits, contact us today at 972-671-9922 and schedule a complimentary case evaluation. We provide representation for people with MS and other disabilities in Dallas, Lewisville, Denton, Plano, McKinney, Allen, Denton County, Collin County, Frisco, and Dallas County.