Florida residents who are suffering from any number of conditions and illnesses might not know that they are eligible for Social Security disability benefits for illness. Some of these medical problems are debilitating to the degree that the person cannot work. If that is the case, receiving SSD benefits is a possibility. One such issue is Parkinson’s disease. Understanding how to recognize the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and knowing how the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines whether or not a claimant is eligible, are important steps to take before moving forward with an application.
Parkinson’s disease can begin to manifest itself slowly with the symptoms not appearing to be serious at first. The symptoms that are generally associated with the disease are: tremors, slowed movement, muscle rigidity, impairment in posture or balance, a loss of automatic movements, changes in speech and changes in writing.
To qualify for SSD benefits for illness, the claimant seeking benefits must have worked and paid a sufficient amount of Social Security taxes, also known as FICA. In addition, the disability must be severe enough that he or she cannot work any job. The disability must also be so severe that it will either result in the claimant’s death or it has lasted or is expected to last for 12 consecutive months. According to the SSA, the application will take between three and four months, but it might take as long as eight months. If there is a denial, the appeals process can take three months to a year or more.
Those who have qualified for benefits will also be able to receive Medicare, but it will not go into effect until two years after the SSD benefits have started. Given the nature of Parkinson’s and the problems it causes to those suffering from it, it is often necessary for them to have long term care. When diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the victim and his or her family need to be aware of its accompanying issues and speak to an attorney about disability status and receiving Social Security disability benefits for illness.
Source: parkinsonsaction.org, “Parkinson’s Action Network — Social Security Disability Income,” accessed on Feb. 9, 2016
