Seeking Disability Benefits for Clients With Multiple Sclerosis
If you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and are unable to engage in full-time employment, you should consult with an attorney about making a claim for Social Security disability (SSD) or SSI benefits.
At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, PLLC, we have helped many clients with multiple sclerosis successfully apply for SSD and SSI benefits, and to appeal denied claims. Contact us for a free consultation with an experienced disability benefits lawyer.
Determining Whether You Can Still Work With MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative neurological disorder that can permanently damage your central nervous system. Symptoms include sensory problems, muscle weakness, difficulties with coordination, visual problems, pain, fatigue and serious depression.
In many but not all people with multiple sclerosis, serious flare-ups are followed by periods of partial recovery. However, each flare-up may leave you with additional lingering symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease that does not necessarily prevent people from working early on. However, it often eventually causes functional disability.
Advanced multiple sclerosis can limit your ability to control your extremities, as well as your cognitive abilities, to an extent that prevents you from holding down a full-time job. If MS is having this effect on you, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits.
Pursuing Every Opportunity to Get You Approved for Benefits
Multiple sclerosis is on the Social Security Administration’s listing of impairments, so you can qualify for disability benefits if your condition is severe enough to meet the criteria of the listing. You can also qualify by showing that the limitations imposed by the disease prevent you from working.
Our attorneys are experienced at helping people with multiple sclerosis document their symptoms and limitations by working with their doctors. If you believe your MS has reached the point where it is impacting your ability to work, contact us to discuss your options.
FAQ: Multiple Sclerosis Social Security Disability SSI Benefits
How long does a multiple sclerosis disability claim take in New York?
Most MS disability claims take several months at the initial level and can take longer if a hearing is needed. Delays often happen when medical records are incomplete or inconsistent. At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, we help New York clients reduce delays by gathering updated neurology records early and responding quickly to SSA requests.
Can I qualify for SSD in New York if my multiple sclerosis is still in the early stages?
Yes. You do not need to be completely unable to walk or work to qualify. Early-stage MS cases can still qualify if symptoms such as fatigue, vision issues, or cognitive problems already limit your ability to maintain full-time employment. Our firm helps New Yorkers show how even early functional limits affect work capacity.
Can I work part-time while applying for SSD with MS?
Yes, but only within strict income limits set by Social Security. If you earn above the substantial gainful activity threshold, your claim may be denied. Our SSD attorneys in New York can help you understand how work activity can affect your case before it creates problems with SSA.
