Living with facet arthropathy can feel like carrying a constant, invisible burden. The pain and stiffness often extend beyond the spine, affecting every part of daily life—from routine tasks like bending or lifting to simply getting through a workday. If you’re facing this reality, you may wonder if Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits could provide the financial stability you need.
At Burgess & Christensen, we understand the challenges you’re up against. With decades of experience helping individuals with debilitating conditions, we’re here to guide you through the SSDI process and help you build a strong case for the benefits you deserve. Let’s explore how facet arthropathy fits into the SSA’s requirements and what it takes to qualify.
Qualifying for SSDI with Facet Arthropathy
You can qualify for SSDI by showing that your condition stops you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA). This is evaluated through your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), which measures what you can do despite your condition. For example:
- Can you sit or stand for long periods?
- Are you able to lift or carry objects?
- How does your pain impact concentration or focus?
Vocational experts will be brought in to determine whether any jobs exist that match your reduced capacity.
Medical Evidence Required for SSDI
A strong SSDI claim relies on compelling medical evidence. Here’s what you’ll need to demonstrate how facet arthropathy affects your life and ability to work:
- Official Diagnosis: Documentation from a licensed physician confirming your condition.
- Imaging Results: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans showing damage or degeneration in your spine.
- Treatment History: Records of treatments such as medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgeries and how effective they’ve been.
- Physician Statements: Detailed notes from your doctor describing your physical limitations, such as difficulty with standing, walking, or lifting.
Having a trusted physician who understands your condition is key. Their input can significantly strengthen your application.
The SSDI Application Process in Georgia
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical and emotional toll of a condition like facet arthropathy. Understanding the steps involved can make the process less daunting and help you prepare for what lies ahead. Here’s how the process works in Georgia for most applicants:
Step 1: Initial Application
The first step is submitting your application to the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. If you hire an attorney, they may assist you with completing this application. During this stage, you’ll provide:
- Personal information (name, Social Security number, work history)
- Detailed medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatments, and limitations
- Information about any medications, therapies, or surgeries you’ve undergone
It’s essential to be thorough and accurate—any missing information could delay your claim.
Step 2: Disability Determination Services (DDS) Review
Once your application is submitted, it’s reviewed by Georgia’s Disability Determination Services (DDS). The Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your medical evidence to decide if your condition meets the SSA’s disability criteria.
Step 3: Initial Decision
In most cases, it takes well over a year for most applicants to receive a decision. Unfortunately, statistics show that the majority of initial applications are denied. If this happens, don’t lose hope—many claims are approved during the appeals process.
Step 4: Reconsideration
If your initial claim is denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the decision. This involves a fresh review of your application by someone who wasn’t involved in the original decision. You can also submit additional medical evidence to strengthen your case. In most cases, it takes over a year to receive a decision at reconsideration.
Step 5: Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
Reconsideration denials can be appealed to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the most critical stage of the process. At the hearing, you’ll get the chance to explain your case in person, share additional evidence, and answer questions about how your condition affects your ability to work. A vocational expert will also testify about whether there are any jobs you can still do.
Step 6: Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. The council reviews the ALJ’s decision to check for mistakes or missing information but doesn’t hold a new hearing. They can deny your request, send it back to the ALJ for more review, or make a new decision.
How Burgess & Christensen Can Help
The SSDI application process can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Burgess & Christensen, we’ve spent decades helping individuals with disabling conditions like facet arthropathy obtain the benefits they deserve. Here’s how we can assist:
- Building a Strong Case: We’ll help you gather comprehensive medical evidence and documentation.
- Filing Your Application: Ensuring every detail is accurate and complete.
- Representation at Hearings: Standing by your side during appeals and ALJ hearings.
- Negotiating with the SSA: Addressing any challenges that arise during your claim.
Our personalized approach ensures that your unique situation is fully understood and presented to the SSA.
Georgia Residents: Get Legal Help with Your SSDI Claim
If facet arthropathy has left you struggling to work, we’re here to help. Contact Burgess & Christensen today for a free consultation. Let’s explore your options and work together to secure the benefits you need.
Call us now at 770-422-8111 or visit our Contact Us page to get started. Let us help you take the first step toward financial relief and a better future.