Rheumatoid Arthritis (RH)


img_doctorRheumatoid arthritis (or inflammatory arthritis) recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) as a qualifying condition for receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. However, the SSA evaluates each case individually to determine whether or not the effects of rheumatoid arthritis or the treatments would preclude you from doing any kind of work for a period of at least twelve months.

In the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security manual (also known as the Blue Book), The Social Security Administration classifies rheumatoid arthritis as an Immune System Disorder. When evaluating individual cases, they consider a number of factors including:

  • Constitutional symptoms or signs, including severe fatigue, fever, malaise, involuntary weight loss.
  • Level of involvement.
  • Limitation of activities of daily living.
  • Limitation in maintaining social functioning.
  • Limitation in completing tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence, or pace.

At the Law Offices of Harold W. Conick & Associates Ltd., we are experienced in handling social security disability claims related to rheumatoid arthritis and other Immune System Disorders including but not limited to systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), connective tissue disease, systemic vasculitis, Immune deficiency disorders, Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, Lupus and more. We understand what the SSA is looking for when evaluating claims, and are here to be your tough advocates regardless of the level of your appeal.

We also realize that this is a difficult time, and are here to answer your questions. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today at 800-608-8881.