Social Security Disability with multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is disabling through a combination of effects — weakness and coordination loss, disabling fatigue, cognitive slowing, vision problems — that vary with the relapsing-remitting course. Progressive forms are evaluated on the same basis. The residual deficits between relapses often matter as much as the relapses themselves.
How Social Security evaluates multiple sclerosis
Social Security first checks whether the condition meets a medical Listing, but most cases do not turn on the Listing. They turn on the severity shown in the medical evidence and are usually decided on residual functional capacity — what a person can still do despite the condition. For multiple sclerosis, fatigue and cognitive effects are central: the off-task time, unscheduled rest, and absences they cause. Approval depends on more than a diagnosis — we must demonstrate the severity and duration of your symptoms, how they affect everyday activities, and your ability to work.
Evidence that matters
- MRI showing lesions and progression, and neurology records documenting relapses and residual deficits.
- Objective findings on strength, coordination, gait, and vision over time.
- Any neuropsychological testing addressing processing speed and memory.
- A treating neurologist's statement on fatigue, the need for rest, and expected absences.
Representation
Representation makes sure the record captures the deficits that persist between relapses, not just the acute episodes, and translates fatigue and cognitive slowing into vocational terms at the hearing. A denial that credits only a good exam on a good day is an argument for federal court.
Talk about a disability claim
A call sets up a conference — in person or by phone. There is no cost for the review.
Calls are answered weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Text (912) 807-5000 — texts are answered 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.