Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the more common conditions qualifying for disability benefits. Here's what you need to know about applying with MS.
In this article, we'll cover:
- When MS qualifies
- SSA's MS listing
- Evidence needed
- Tips for approval
1. When MS Qualifies
MS can qualify when:
- Symptoms significantly limit function
- Even with treatment
- Prevents substantial work
- Expected to last 12+ months
Common disabling symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Mobility issues
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Numbness/weakness
- Balance problems
- Bladder dysfunction
Types of MS:
- Relapsing-remitting
- Primary progressive
- Secondary progressive
- All can qualify
- Based on functional impact
2. SSA's MS Listing
Listing 11.09 - Multiple Sclerosis: Requires:
- Diagnosis of MS, AND
- One of the following:
A: Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in extreme limitation in standing/walking or using arms
B: Marked limitation in physical functioning AND marked limitation in:
- Understanding/memory/applying information, OR
- Interacting with others, OR
- Concentrating/persisting/maintaining pace, OR
- Adapting/managing oneself
What "marked" means:
- Seriously limited ability
- More than moderate
- Significantly impairs function
If you don't meet the listing:
- Evaluated through RFC
- What can you still do?
- Combined limitations matter
- May still qualify
Important: Many MS cases qualify based on RFC even without meeting the listing exactly.
3. Evidence Needed
Diagnosis:
- Neurologist diagnosis
- MRI showing lesions
- Medical history
- Clinical findings
MRI results:
- Brain and/or spinal cord
- Shows characteristic lesions
- Supports diagnosis
- Documents disease burden
Neurological exams:
- Motor function testing
- Sensory testing
- Reflexes
- Coordination
- Visual testing
Treatment records:
- Disease-modifying therapies
- Symptom management
- Response to treatment
- Medication side effects
Functional limitations:
- Walking distance
- Standing tolerance
- Arm/hand function
- Cognitive abilities
- Fatigue patterns
Doctor's statement:
- Detailed RFC assessment
- Physical limitations
- Cognitive limitations
- Work restrictions
- Prognosis
4. Tips for Approval
Document fatigue:
- MS fatigue is profound
- Different from normal tiredness
- Affects everything
- Not relieved by rest
Track cognitive issues:
- Memory problems
- Concentration difficulties
- Processing speed
- "Brain fog"
Note variability:
- Symptoms fluctuate
- Good days and bad days
- Heat sensitivity
- Flares and relapses
Include all symptoms:
- Not just major ones
- Vision changes
- Bladder issues
- Numbness/tingling
- Balance problems
Describe daily life:
- What activities are difficult
- What you've given up
- Help you need
- How MS changed your life
Document work impact:
- Why you can't sustain work
- Unpredictable symptoms
- Need for rest
- Cognitive limitations
Common Challenges
Invisible symptoms:
- Fatigue isn't visible
- Cognitive issues not obvious
- Pain not visible
- Document thoroughly
Relapsing-remitting MS:
- May appear fine between relapses
- Relapses are unpredictable
- Can't maintain work schedule
- Document the pattern
"You look fine":
- Many MS symptoms are invisible
- Doesn't reflect true limitation
- Medical evidence crucial
- Doctor statements help
Special Considerations
Compassionate Allowances:
- Some severe MS cases qualify
- Primary-progressive MS (advanced)
- Check if you qualify for fast-track
Young applicants:
- MS often strikes young adults
- May have limited work history
- SSI available without work history
- SSDI requires sufficient credits
How Purple Helps
Purple supports those with MS:
- Simple banking interface
- Track benefit deposits
- Manage finances easily
- Less cognitive effort
- Banking from anywhere