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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Anyone receiving Social Security Disability for their RA? Were you approved the first time, or was an appeal necessary? Any tips?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Montgomery, TX
February 10
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Reactions
A myRAteam Member

I was initially denied and had to get an attorney

February 13
A myRAteam Member

I am praying mine is the case as well. I’m a nurse and had to stop working over a year ago. With my painful and swollen hands and the severe fatigue, there’s NO WAY I can still work as an RN. Even in an “calmer” office setting. I can’t type for more than an hour or so. Been waiting almost a year for SSDI decision, hoping it’s a good outcome soon 🙏🏻

February 10
A myRAteam Member

I was approved the first time.

February 10
myRAteam

Were you approved the first time, or was an appeal necessary?

Most people are not approved on their first attempt. On average, only about 21 percent of applicants were approved initially between 2010 and 2019. However, some myRAteam members have had quicker success - one member shared their case only took 23 days for Show Full Answer

Were you approved the first time, or was an appeal necessary?

Most people are not approved on their first attempt. On average, only about 21 percent of applicants were approved initially between 2010 and 2019. However, some myRAteam members have had quicker success - one member shared their case only took 23 days for approval.

If denied initially, appeals are common and can be successful. About 2 percent were approved after requesting reconsideration, and about 8 percent of successful claims between 2010 and 2019 were approved at the hearing or Appeals Council level.

One myRAteam member shared: "I got accepted after my second go. I got help from a free legal aid system. I had a hearing via the computer, and it was tough." Tips for applying:

* Work closely with your rheumatologist to document how RA limits your daily activities and ability to work
* Gather all medical records, test results (X-rays, blood tests, MRI scans), and medication lists
* Document your complete work history from the last 15 years
* Describe specifically how RA affects daily tasks like shopping, cooking, and cleaning
* Consider hiring a disability attorney who specializes only in disability cases - they can represent you at hearings if needed
* Be prepared for the process to take 3-5 months on average
* Don't give up if denied initially - appeals are worth pursuing

A myRAteam member advised: "Make sure you have an attorney who specializes only in disability."

February 10
A myRAteam Member

I went thru the first time I applied. I do know that some have a difficult time getting approved. Stick to your guns and don't let up until your approved. I know that this is a difficult to endure. Sometimes you have to fully advocate for yourself for along as it takes.

February 13

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