Applying for Disability with Neurofibromatosis

GUEST BLOG POST

Written by: Ram Meyyappan

Thank you Ram for your patience - The information you have provided in this article is sure to help many people! I have applied and been approved disability for all 3 of my children who have Neurofibromatosis...However, I have been unsuccessful in getting approved for myself.

The process was exhausting...To say the least. However, I am certain that I did the right thing, in assuring health and financial security for my kids as they grow and deal with all the complications of NF.

If you have any questions, you can contact me or Ram...Or just leave a comment below.

Thanks Again Ram!

Applying for Disability Benefits with Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that can affect both children and adults. It can be a very debilitating condition for a child and can prevent an adult from performing substantial gainful work activity. Fortunately, Social Security Disability benefits may be able to help children and adults who are suffering from this condition.

There are two Social Security Disability programs that you may qualify for. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If your child is suffering from the condition, he or she may qualify for SSI depending on your family's financial situation. If you are suffering from this condition as an adult, you may qualify for either SSDI or SSI or a combination of both depending on your work history and your household finances.

Qualifying for SSDI

In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits through your past work history. As of 2013, for each $1,160 that you earn you earn one work credit. You can earn a maximum of four work credits per year. In order to qualify for SSDI, if you are 31 years of age or older, you will need to have earned a total of 20 work credits. If you are under 31 years of age, you must have worked at least half of the time you have been able to since turning age 21. For example, if you are under 24, you must have earned 6 work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. If you are 27, you must have worked three of the past six years in order to qualify for SSDI benefits.

Qualifying for SSI Benefits

If you have not earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI or if your child is suffering from neurofibromatosis, you may qualify for SSI benefits. SSI is a needs-based program. In order to qualify, you monthly household income cannot exceed $710 as an individual or $1,060 as a couple. Your household assets must also not exceed $2,000 as an adult or $3,000 as a couple.

Qualifying for Disability with Neurofibromatosis

In addition to meeting the above-mentioned criteria, you must also prove that they are disabled according to Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines. Unfortunately there is no listing for neurofibromatosis in the SSA's Blue Book. However, this does not mean that you cannot qualify for benefits. It can be done if you provide enough medical documentation to prove that you are completely unable to perform any type of work activity whatsoever. This means providing treatment histories, copies of your clinical records, and lab and imaging results. For a child, it may mean providing the SSA with sufficient proof of a learning or developmental disability.

For more information on how to medically qualify with Neurofibromatosis, please visit: http://www.disability-benefits-help.org/blog/applying-SSD-neurofibromatosis

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits online (http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pgm/disability.htm) or in person at one of the local Social Security offices. When you apply, you will be asked to complete a number of forms. Make sure you fill out these forms carefully with very detailed and specific answers to help the SSA understand how you or your child qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

Don’t be discouraged if your application is denied. Almost 60% of initial applications are denied. There is an extensive appeals process through which you can try to obtain the benefits you need. If your claim has been denied, you should strongly consider hiring a disability attorney or advocate to help you with the appeals process.

Article by Ram Meyyappan
Social Security Disability Help