Pain.
It’s often one of the most frustrating and debilitating symptoms of an injury or ailment. When you are forced to live with pain on a regular basis, you struggle to work. It’s hard enough to get out of bed each morning and go about your daily chores. Holding a regular job where you must walk, socialize, lift, write, and be productive feels next to impossible.
Living without a paycheck is not a possibility for most of us. When you suffer from chronic pain, Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) is your best option for getting the financial support you need so you can feel your best.
Qualifying for SSDI in Massachusetts Because of Chronic Pain
The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not make it easy for people to apply for benefits. There are many hoops that you must jump through in order to get approved. In order to get SSDI, you must show the SSA how your chronic pain leaves you physically or mentally impaired.
Symptoms alone are not enough. Here are a few ways that you can support your application and show the SSA that you need these benefits:
- Provide medical evidence. If you were injured, provide medical evidence of your injury. For example, submit X-rays and doctor notes from your physical exams. If your chronic pain is due to an ailment, such as arthritis, submitting lab results, doctor notes, and any other medical evidence you have will support your claim.
- Show any psychological impact your pain has had on your life. Pain can impact your mental well-being too. Show any psychological consequences from your pain—such as depression or anxiety—by offering a doctor’s note. This can come from any medical professional, including a physician or psychiatrist.
- Establish how long your chronic pain is expected to last. You might not have the exact answer to this, and that’s okay. As long as your chronic pain is expected to last 12 consecutive months or more, you may qualify for SSDI.
- Get specific with your diagnosis. If your chronic pain is a direct result of a specific problem, such as arthritis, neurological disorders, or an injury, it is important that you address that in your application. These injuries often have specific listings that could help you make a stronger case for why you should be approved for SSDI.
Submitting your application for SSDI in Massachusetts for chronic pain is not an easy process. Having someone knowledgeable on your side throughout the process can help.
If you know of someone who is living with chronic pain and still trying to work, we encourage you to share this article with him or her. Doing so could be just the relief they need to feel better.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 508.283.5500 to schedule your free consultation.
