If you have Parkinson’s Disease and are unable to work, you might be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits as long as certain criteria are met. A progressive degenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system of an individual is caused by the death of cells that contain a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the mid-brain. While Parkinson’s Disease often starts out with a tremor in one hand, other symptoms develop as the condition advances.
When Parkinson’s Disease has rendered you unable to work and you are ready to apply for benefits, you should consult with a Social Security attorney or advocate so you can get your claim on track.
Back to topHow Does Parkinson’s Disease Qualify for Disability Benefits?
Individuals who have Parkinson’s Disease will have their claim evaluated using the Blue Book, which is the medical guide used by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The Blue Book says an individual with Parkinson’s Disease can qualify for benefits as long as specific diagnostic criteria have been met and documented. Among those are:
- Bradykinesia, which is slowness of movement, or a tremor in two extremities that cause a problem with movement.
- Rigidity of the limbs caused by excessive muscle contractions.
- Postural instability or affected gait or difficulty standing.
If your condition has advanced so you have these symptoms and challenges, you might be approved for disability benefits.
Back to topHow Can An Attorney Help Me While Applying?
An attorney can help you get all your medical records for your medical condition and gather up documentation that shows how Parkinson’s Disease has affected your ability to work. When your claim is reviewed by Disability Determination Services, you want to make sure they have access to all physician notes, prescription records, treatment records, reports from scans and x-ray reports, lab reports, and so forth so your claim can be considered properly with all evidence being made available.
How Can An Attorney Help Me If My Claim Is Denied?
If your claim is denied, your attorney will file an appeal to get the SSA to reconsider your situation. After the second appeal, you will request a hearing before an administrative law judge. At that time, you will be questioned by a vocational expert.
Some questions you might be asked will include, “How does your condition affect your balance and your ability to stand all day?” “Does your slower movement affect your productivity at work and if so, how?” “Has your Parkinson’s Disease affected your memory and your ability to get things done?” Your attorney will help you prepare for these questions and will help you have evidence to support your claim when you go before the judge for a decision.
Back to topConnect With an Attorney Today
Now is the time to get your claim underway for your debilitating Parkinson’s Disease, so you need to complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get in contact with an advocate or attorney. Your advocate or lawyer will go over all your records and documentation to determine if you meet the requirements to qualify for disability benefits using either medical criteria or a medical-vocational allowance. Get your claim underway today!
Back to topHelpful Resources
- Medical Criteria Needed to Qualify with Parkinson’s Disease
- Parkinson's Disease and Social Security Disability
- Permanent Restrictions After Parkinson’s
