Living with Crohn’s disease presents daily challenges that can make it difficult or even impossible to work. For people with Crohn’s, securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can provide essential financial support. Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC is here to guide you through the process of obtaining the disability benefits you deserve.
Can You Get Disability for Crohn’s Disease?
Yes, Crohn’s disease can qualify for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Crohn’s is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It leads to lasting inflammation in the digestive system. This often affects the digestive tract, small intestine, or colon.
Severe cases may meet the SSA’s criteria. This is especially true if the condition greatly limits your ability to work.
Qualifying for Crohn’s Disability Benefits
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must show that your Crohn’s disease stops you from working regularly. The SSA needs proof that your symptoms continue even with medical treatment. They must show that you cannot do your old job or adapt to a new one.
The SSA uses its Blue Book to evaluate disability claims. Crohn’s disease falls under the SSA Blue Book Section 5.06: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Conditions that meet the criteria often include:
- Obstructions in the small intestine or colon require hospitalization. This could also include bowel obstruction.
- Persistent symptoms of Crohn’s disease include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. A body mass index (BMI) below 17.5 is also a concern.
- Poor nutrient absorption requires a central venous catheter for nutritional support.
If your case does not meet the Blue Book criteria, you might still qualify under a Medical-Vocational Allowance. This considers factors such as your age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC).
Evidence Needed to Qualify for Disability Benefits?
Providing strong medical evidence is key to winning a Crohn’s disability claim. Essential documentation includes:
- Medical Records: Include evaluations from a digestive health doctor. Add test results from your colon scope and treatment plans. Highlight the severity and persistence of symptoms of Crohn’s.
- Hospitalization History: Proof of surgeries, hospital stays, or emergency treatments related to Crohn’s disease complications.
- Functional Assessments: This is a report from your doctor. It explains how your condition affects your ability to do tasks. These tasks include standing, walking, or sitting steadily.
At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we help clients gather and organize this evidence to strengthen their applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Crohn’s Disease Qualify for Disability?
Yes, Crohn’s disease can qualify for disability. It must meet the SSA’s inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) criteria or a Medical-Vocational Allowance. Severe digestive disorder symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea or malnutrition, are key factors in qualifying.
Why Is It Difficult to Live With Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. These issues can make it hard for you to work. You might struggle to concentrate, sit for long periods, or do physical tasks.
For people with Crohn’s, frequent medical appointments, hospital stays, and side effects from medications further complicate daily life. The flare-ups can happen suddenly and without warning. This makes it hard to prepare. Understanding the patterns can help to manage them better.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits With Crohn’s?
Start by submitting an application to the SSA. Include detailed medical records. These documents include functional assessments and evidence of how Crohn’s impacts your ability to perform daily tasks.
Two types of disability exist: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The main difference lies in that SSI depends on financial need, while SSDI relies on work history. Working with a disability lawyer can make the process easier and increase your chances of approval.
Which Nervous System Disorders Link to Crohn’s?
Crohn’s disease can sometimes impact the central nervous system. This may cause issues like brain fog or peripheral neuropathy. While rare, these symptoms can further limit your ability to work.
Check out some other commonly asked questions here.
Why Work With Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC?
Navigating the disability benefits process is often overwhelming. With over 100 years of experience, Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC is committed to helping clients get the benefits they deserve.
Here’s why clients trust us:
- Certified Expertise: Emma Drozdowski Webb is a Certified Disability Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. She holds in-depth knowledge of working with SSDI claims.
- Comprehensive Support: We help with applications and handle cases at all appeal levels.
- Challenging Cases Accepted: We take on cases that other firms often turn away.
- Client-Focused Approach: When you contact us, you will meet directly with an attorney, not just a caseworker. We also help people with mobility or transportation problems to ensure they can access services.
Secure Your Crohn’s Disability Benefits Today
If Crohn’s disease limits your ability to work, do not wait to seek help. At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we provide compassionate guidance tailored to your needs. Let us help you navigate the Social Security Disability process with confidence.
Contact us today at (865) 299-7080 for a free consultation. Together, we can work to secure the benefits you deserve.
