Yes, an arthritis sufferer can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, but in order to do so, you must first meet the basic disability requirements set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). For workers with arthritis, the SSA will determine first if they are working above the substantial gainful activity level. The SSA will also determine whether the condition is expected to last for at least 12 months and is a severe impairment. As of 2017, earning more than $1,170 a month as an employee is enough to disqualify an arthritis sufferer from receiving Social Security disability benefits.

Arthritis, a condition that causes swelling of the joints, limits a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. There are four separate listings for arthritis: joint dysfunction, surgery of a weight-bearing joint, disorders of the spine, and inflammatory arthritis. The breakdown to qualify for each is as follows:

• If your arthritis causes major dysfunction in your joints, you may automatically qualify for SSD benefits.
• If you underwent major surgery for an important weight-bearing joint and can no longer walk on your own, you may automatically qualify for SSD benefits.
• If you have inflammatory arthritis, you can qualify for benefits if you have persistent swelling, pain, and limited mobility.
• If you have arthritis of the spine, you must prove that your arthritis compromises a nerve root of the spinal cord displaying one of three complications: nerve root compression, spinal arachnoiditis, and lumbar spinal stenosis.

Consult a Social Security Disability lawyer and have your case evaluated to determine if your arthritis condition is eligible for Social Security Disability. The SSA can approve an applicant’s claim even if their arthritis doesn’t meet any of the official impairment listing, and you can increase the chances of this happening with a lawyer representing you in your application.

Source:

Social Security Disability Benefits for Arthritis, Nolo.com