Last Updated on January 17, 2017 by Deborah L. Hardin
Question: Does my Rheumatoid Arthritis qualify me for Social Security Disability?
Dear Reader:
The answer to your question is: Maybe.
A diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is not enough for you to qualify for disability benefits. There are many people diagnosed with RA who can, and do, continue to work.
You will need medical records showing that your RA (or other impairment or combination of impairments) prevents you from working full time. Your medical records must also show that this is a long-term issue not expected to improve anytime soon, even with medical treatment.
Your medical records probably don’t say “Patient has RA that prevents her from working full time and is not going to improve anytime soon.” (Even if your records did say this, you need proof.)
However, your records may contain evidence of your impairments and how they affect your ability to function. For example, your record might include X-rays, MRIs, blood work, doctors’ notes, discharge summaries from a hospital, etc. This is the proof that Social Security is looking for.
So, in short: YES, it is possible to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits when you have RA. However, you will need medical records that prove that your limitations are long-term and prevent you from working. Simply having a diagnosis is not enough.
Thank you for your question, and best of luck with your claim!
Deborah L. Hardin, Managing Attorney
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