SSA Reviewing Benefit Criteria for Neurological Disorders
The SSA announced it is considering changes to its Impairment Listings for neurological disorders, which could have a large impact on people applying for disability benefits.
July 11, 2012
In May 2012, the Social Security Administration announced that it would review the criteria it uses to determine whether applicants with neurological disorders qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. The SSA plans to solicit public comments on the proposed changes to its Listing of Impairments after it publishes a Notice of Proposed Rule Making. The review is part of the SSA's Annual Performance Plan for Fiscal Year 2013. Changes to the SSA's Listing of Impairments for neurological disorders could have a large impact on people applying for disability benefits.SSA Review of Impairment Listing
According to a senior representative at a national Social Security Disability representation firm, in 2010 alone over 1 million people applied for disability benefits because of neurological disorders. Of those applicants, fewer than nine percent qualified for benefits. One of the ways that the SSA determines whether an applicant meets its definition of "disabled" is by consulting its Listing of Impairments, the SSA's comprehensive list of disorders that it considers severe enough to prevent people from working.
The SSA review of its Listing of Impairments for neurological disorders could lead to an updated understanding of the ways that neurological disorders affect people and keep them from gainful employment.
Common Types of Neurological Disorders
The American Academy of Neurology reports that there are over 600 neurological diseases. The SSA provides listings for 17 categories of neurological diseases. Some of the more common neurological disorders include:
-Huntington's
-Muscular Dystrophy
-Alzheimer's
-Parkinson's
-Epilepsy
Talk to an Attorney
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a daunting process. Dealing with the extensive application process can seem overwhelming for those who are struggling with a disability and are unable to work. If you can no longer work because of a disability, consult an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer who can help you get the benefits you need.
Article provided by Norfleet and Lafferty LLC
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