Living with multiple illnesses can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. When these conditions impact your ability to work, the financial strain can add another layer of stress to an already difficult situation. Fortunately, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs are designed to provide financial support for individuals with disabilities, including those with multiple illnesses. In this post, our Florida disability attorney will explore how having multiple illnesses can affect your disability claim and how an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex application process.
Understanding Multiple Illnesses and Disability in Florida
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that many individuals suffer from more than one medical condition. Even if no single condition meets the SSA’s criteria for disability, the cumulative effect of multiple illnesses may still qualify you for benefits.
Common Combinations of Multiple Illnesses
Some frequently seen combinations of illnesses in disability claims include:
- Physical and mental health conditions (chronic pain and depression)
- Multiple chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis)
- Autoimmune disorders with secondary conditions (lupus with kidney problems)
- Neurological disorders with associated symptoms (multiple sclerosis with cognitive impairments)
How the SSA Evaluates Claims with Multiple Illnesses
The SSA considers the combined impact of all your medical conditions. They recognize that while one condition alone might not be disabling, the cumulative effect of multiple illnesses can significantly impair a person’s ability to perform work-related tasks.
However, understanding exactly how they make this assessment is key to presenting a strong case.
The SSA follows a five-step sequential evaluation process for all disability claims:
- Are you working? If you’re earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level, you won’t be considered disabled.
- Is your condition severe? Your illnesses must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities.
- Does your condition meet or equal a listing? The SSA compares your conditions to their list of impairments (the “Blue Book“).
- Can you do your past work? If not, the SSA moves to the final step.
- Can you do any other type of work? The SSA considers your age, education, work experience, and remaining functional capacity.
For individuals with multiple illnesses, steps three and five are particularly important. Even if no single condition meets a listing, the combined effect of your illnesses may equal a listing or significantly reduce your ability to perform any work.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Dealing with the disability benefits process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with multiple illnesses. An experienced disability attorney can significantly improve your chances of success by:
- Ensuring all your conditions are properly documented and presented to the SSA
- Helping you gather the most relevant and compelling medical evidence
- Preparing you for consultative examinations or hearings
- Arguing effectively how your combined conditions meet or equal a listing
- Presenting a clear picture of your overall limitations to the Administrative Law Judge
- Handling appeals and federal court cases if necessary
At Disability Advocates Group, we are dedicated to helping clients with multiple illnesses secure the benefits they deserve. Our extensive experience with complex cases allows us to develop strong, persuasive arguments that address your specific situation.
Contact Disability Advocates Group Florida to Discuss Your Disability Claim
Living with multiple illnesses is challenging enough without the added stress of financial insecurity. While the process of obtaining disability benefits can be complex, it’s important to remember that help is available. At the Disability Advocates Group Florida, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the application process, from initial filing to federal court appeals if necessary.
If you’re struggling with multiple illnesses and are unable to work, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges you face and are dedicated to helping you secure the benefits you need and deserve. Remember, we charge no fee unless we win your case.