Musculoskeletal System And Connective Tissue
The SSA reports that the largest category of diagnoses among disabled workers receiving disability benefits was diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue. These disabilities, which represented 32.3 percent of the diagnoses, involve damage to ones nerves, muscles, tendons or ligaments. Examples of this type of disorder include:
- ArthritisAn individual with rheumatoid arthritis, a disorder of the immune system, must experience significant limits on his or her ability to work to qualify for benefits under this medical diagnosis. Rheumatoid arthritis is sometimes referred to as a connective tissue disorder.
- Back pain Abnormal curvature of the spine may affect an individuals ability to walk as well as the function of other body systems. The intensity of back pain and the limitations on an individuals ability to function are considered in a disability diagnosis related to back pain.
- FibromyalgiaFibromyalgia is a complex syndrome in which a person has widespread pain in the joints, tendons, muscles and soft tissues that lasts for more than three months. Claims reviewers will try to assess whether there is adequate evidence to show that the condition limits a persons ability to perform any type of gainful work.
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy RSD describes a range of symptoms that may occur from injury, diseases or surgery. RSD is characterized by intense burning or aching pain typically caused by trauma to a single extremity.
Can You Do Any Other Type Of Work
If you cant do the work you did in the past, we look to see if there is other work you could do despite your medical impairment.
We consider your medical conditions, age, education, past work experience, and any transferable skills you may have. If you cant do other work, well decide you are disabled. If you can do other work, well decide that you dont have a qualifying disability and your claim will be denied.
What Is Form Ssa
Form SSA-16-BK asks for basic information about the claimant including their Social Security number, whether they are male or female, their date of birth, the city, state, and country in which they were born. Other information includes whether they have used other Social Security numbers, were in the military, have a living spouse, whether they are entitled to a pension, and other information which would update Social Security upon their qualification for disability benefits.
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Consideration Of Your Residual Functional Capacity
If the SSA says you dont meet the disability listing, the SSA will consider what you can do. It does this by writing up your mental residual functional capacity . An MRFC is a description of what tasks you can do in a work setting it explains your communication skills, your ability to relate to others, your ability to speak to the public, and whether you can be reliable in showing up to work.
For instance, say you have bipolar disorder and there is evidence in your medical records that you have moderate impairment in your social functioning caused by mood swings and you have a moderate level of difficulty with concentration. Your RFC might look like the following: you have no limitations in walking/standing/sitting, you are unable to work with the public, and you are limited to simple 1-2 step instructions. This RFC would prevent you from working in many occupations, but you still would not be found disabled since there are simple unskilled jobs that do not require working with the public. Read more about how the SSA makes this decision in our article on how the SSA evaluates an RFC for disability.
Consult With Crest Ssd Today
If you have questions about disability requirements, monthly benefits, or the application process for a bipolar disorder, contact Crest SSD today.
It is helpful to seek the counsel of a disability representative that understands how the process works and can help you with your claim. We have years of experience and many satisfied disability applications.Contact us at the number above or fill out this free evaluation form to find the support you need applying for disability benefits!
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What Kind Of Documentation Do I Need To Bring
The documentation that you need to bring along varies depending on what it is you are trying to do. At a minimum, you will need some form of identification. This might be a driver’s license, U.S. Passport, or state-issued non-driver’s identification card. You might also need your current Social Security card and even your birth certificate. It is usually best to take everything you can even if you are not sure whether you need it. It is better to carry documentation that is not needed than to arrive without the proper documentation.
What Is Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is characterized by unusual shifts in mood, energy and activity levels. People who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder often have varying abilities to carry out daily tasks. Bipolar disorder involves clear changes in mood, from manic, highly energized periods to more depressed, sad times.
There are four primary types of bipolar disorder. They include:
1. Bipolar I Disorder: the most severe type of bipolar disorder, this type includes manic episodes that last for at least seven days or that are so severe that they require hospitalization. Depressive episodes usually last for at least two weeks.
2. Bipolar II Disorder: this type has both depressive and manic episodes, but with less extreme manic periods.
3. Cyclothymic Disorder: also known as cyclothymia, this type involves numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms for at least two years.
4. Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders: this type involves bipolar symptoms that do not meet the criteria for one of the other diagnoses.
Signs and symptoms of a manic bipolar disorder episode include:
- Feel very up, high, or elated
- Have a lot of energy
- Have increased activity levels
- Eat too much or too little
- Feel tired or slowed down
- Think about death or suicide
Bipolar disorder affects people in different ways. While medication and psychotherapy can help to control the symptoms of bipolar disorder, it may not completely eliminate them.
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Medical Records From Your Doctor
When determining whether your bipolar disorder is disabling, your insurance company will likely also want the opinions of your treating doctor. Your doctors support is key. Your doctors reports should focus on:
- The frequency and severity of your symptoms
- Any positive mental status exam findings
- Their direct observations of you during office visits and
The specific restrictions and limitations that prevent you from working.
Legal Services In Colorado
If you’ve been denied disability benefits in Colorado, you should consider hiring a disability lawyer to help you appeal. Consider hiring an experienced Social Security disability lawyer to assist you with your disability claim. You can find a local lawyer by going to our Colorado disability lawyers page.
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Applying For Disability Benefits With A Mental Illness
Mental and psychological disabilities are among the conditions that can qualify for benefits from the Social Security Administration . You may qualify with severe depression, bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, or another mental illness that prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.
Social Security disability benefits can cover everyday living expenses, medical bills, and other financial obligations. Benefits are paid monthly and can alleviate many of your financial worries, making it possible for you to get by without income from employment.
What We Mean By Disability
The definition of disability under Social Security is different than other programs. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability.
We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if all of the following are true:
- You cannot do work that you did before because of your medical condition.
- You cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition.
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
This is a strict definition of disability. Social Security program rules assume that working families have access to other resources to provide support during periods of short-term disabilities, including workers’ compensation, insurance, savings, and investments.
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How To Renew Disability Placards In Colorado By Mail
If you need to finalize a CO handicap placard renewal transaction with the DMV, you may be able to do so by submitting the required paperwork by mail. A mandatory requirement for renewing your disabled person parking placard is providing the Division of Motor Vehicles with a completed DR 2219 form. Since there may be additional requirements for renewal, contact the department in a timely manner.
Additional Ui Design And Readability Adjustments
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How Does The Process Work
You receive a Ticket in the mail. You take this Ticket to any Employment Network or State Vocational Rehabilitation agency , and if you both agree to work together, the EN or VR will help you with job training, finding employers, information about work incentives, materials to send to prospective employers, and other tasks that will help you go to work. Participating in the Ticket to Work program means that youre protected from a Continuing Disability Review based on your potential ability to work.
Aid To The Needy Disabled
The Aid to the Needy Disabled program provides cash assistance to low-income Colorado residents, age 18 to 59, who have at least a six-month total disability that precludes them from working. The goal of the program is to provide interim financial assistance while waiting for approval of supplemental security income . The AND program provides financial benefits up to $200 per month. Any other income such as wages, Social Security benefits , SSI, veteran’s assistance, etc. may reduce the amount of the AND payment.
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Tips About Filing For And Appealing A Denial Of Social Security Disability Benefits In Colorado
By Alison Barjaktarovich, Contributing Author
If you live in Colorado and are become unable to work due to illness or injury, you could be eligible to receive Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. These federal programs provide monthly payments to those who are deemed “disabled” for at least one year.
To receive SSDI benefits in Colorado, you must have paid enough Social Security taxes to be eligible . If you lack the work history to be able to receive SSDI, you might qualify for SSI if you have minimal assets and income.
Applying For Social Security Disability Benefits In Colorado
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Colorado
Contributed by Deanna Power, Community Outreach Manager, Social Security Disability Help
If you become disabled and can no longer work, there could be financial assistance available. The Social Security Administration offers Social Security Disability benefits for people of all ages to help pay for medical bills, therapy, and the cost of day-to-day living.
There are two forms of benefits available for people with disabilities: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income . Although the two programs are for people with long-term disabilities, qualifying for each programs varies.
SSDI is for adults aged 18 and over who have worked long enough to acquire the SSAs required number of work credits and paid into Social Security taxes.
SSI is for people of all ages. Although it does not require applicants to have paid into FICA taxes, all SSI applicants must have low resources or assets. An SSI applicant cannot have more than $2,000 in assets, or $3,000 in assets if married. The SSA considers cash, stocks, bonds, and life insurance as assets. The SSA will not include a primary home and car when evaluating assets.
When evaluating a childs SSI claim, the SSAs asset limitations are not as strict. The SSA has a rough outline online as to how much a household can earn and still have a disabled child qualify for SSI benefits.
Aurora: 14280 E Jewell St, Suite 250, Aurora, CO 80012
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Benefits For Disabled Adults
SSDI is available to disabled adult workers who have paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is a need-based program only available to applicants that meet strict limitations on income and asset holdings. If you have never worked due to your mental illness, you will not qualify for SSDI. If you have financial support from friends or family, you will not qualify for SSI.
The Disability Application Process
Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, the disability benefits application process follows these general steps:
- You gather the information and documents you need to apply. We recommend you print and review the . It will help you gather the information you need to complete the application.
- You complete and submit your application.
- We review your application to make sure you meet some for disability benefits.
- We check whether you worked enough years to qualify.
- We evaluate any current work activities.
- We process your application and forward your case to the Disability Determination Services office in your state.
- This State agency makes the disability determination decision.
To learn more about who decides if you are disabled, read our publication .
Once You’ve Applied
Once we receive your application, well review it and contact you if we have questions. We might request additional documents from you before we can proceed
Look For Our Response
Youll receive a letter in the mail with our decision. If you included information about other family members when you applied, well let you know if they may be able to receive benefits on your record.
Check The Status
You can check the status of your application online using your personal mySocial Security account. If you are unable to check your status online, you can call us 1-800-772-1213 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Appeal A Decision
- Reconsideration.
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Apply Online For Disability Benefits
Social Security offers an online disability application you can complete at your convenience. Apply from the comfort of your home or any location at a time most convenient for you. You do not need to drive to your local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.
You can use the online application to apply for disability benefits if you:
- Are age 18 or older
- Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record
- Are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death: and
- Have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. If your application was recently denied for medical reasons, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of the medical determination we made.
- Print and review the Adult Disability Checklist.
It will help you gather the information you need to complete the application.
We suggest that you have the following information at hand. It will make completing the application much easier.
Information About You
Information About Your Medical Condition
Information About Your Work
We may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as:
Important
We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical documents, but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate.
Mailing Your Documents
After we receive your online application, we will:
Health First Colorado Buy
This program allows working adults with a qualifying disability to buy in and maintain health coverage even if they earn too much to qualify for regular Medicaid. Check out the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition Video, learn more details at Health Care Policy and Financing, and talk to a benefits counselor.
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How Viner Disability Law Can Help
Viner Disability Law can help initial applicants win their claims for disability benefits in numerous ways. In addition to helping clients file for disability benefits online , our attorneys will review and submit your Activities of Daily Living and Work History Report forms to the SSA to ensure accuracy and to ensure the SSA truly understands the severity of your disability. In respect to activities of daily living, many clients will not provide comprehensive responses that leave room for incorrect assumptions to be made. For instance, some clients may state on this form that they are able to cook and prepare meals for their families when in reality they only use the microwave a few times each week to heat up television dinners because using the stove and oven has become too stressful and complicated as a result of their mental impairments. If a client only provides that he or she is able to cook meals, Social Security could assume that this means the client is able to consistently complete simple and complex tasks, a conclusion that could potentially harm the clients claim for disability benefits. In addition to helping our clients with the application process, Viner Disability Law will connect with your doctor to obtain statements related to your functional limitations which will further support your case.