Spinal Problems

Spinal Problems

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD) is a payroll-funded program to supplement the income of those unable to work due to disability.

General Qualifications for SSD Eligibility

For you to be eligible for SSD, your disability must last for at least a year or be terminal. You must also be under age 65 to be eligible, as 65 is normally the age of Medicare eligibility.

To be eligible for SSD, you must have accumulated a prescribed number of Social Security credits (normally accumulated through work experience and payment into Social Security) during the 10 years immediately preceding disability. Requirements vary according to age, and if you suffer disability before age 23 you may be able to draw on your parents’ Social Security credits without affecting your parents’ eligibility for SSD.

Spinal Problems and SSD

The Social Security Administration recognizes various spinal disorders as qualifying conditions for SSD. Among these are herniated nucleus pulposus, spinal arachnoiditis, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, facet arthritis, vertebral fracture.

If you’re unable to work due to a spine disability, or you have a family member unable to work due to a spinal injury or disability, it may be possible for you or your loved one to receive SSD benefits.

If you have difficulties associated with a spinal problem that has lasted or is expected to last 12 months or more and your disabling condition is preventing you from engaging in substantial gainful activity, you may qualify for SSD benefits.

To be evaluated for disability, you will normally need to submit your medical history, a physical examination report, and a laboratory report confirming your diagnosis. Generally, you will be required to submit acceptable imaging and documentation concerning treatments you have received and the results of treatment. In some cases you may need to show evidence of pain or a need to change positions or posture frequently.
If you haven’t received treatment, or have no record of treatment, evaluation will be based on current medical evidence.

For further information about spinal problems and other musculoskeletal disorders, click here.

If you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability, click here for a free SSD evaluation. If you’ve already applied and been denied benefits—or you’re still waiting for the result—the free evaluation may help you learn how to make a stronger case for receiving SSD benefits. If you’ve already been approved for Social Security Disability Insurance, call MedicareMall toll-free at (877) 413-1556 and we’ll help you make sure you’ve got everything in order.

If you’d like more information about Social Security Disability, a bonded, licensed MedicareMall representative will be happy to answer your questions. We’ll also be glad to answer any questions you may have about Medicare Advantage or Medicare supplement plans, which can provide fuller, more secure coverage once you’re approved for Medicare.

Contact MedicareMall now and we’ll make it our priority to help you make the best-informed decisions possible when it comes to your health or disability.

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