Disability & Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes swelling and pain in the joints, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment,but no cure, exists. In severe cases, the condition can disable people.

Social Security Disability Insurance

• A person with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if his condition causes significant problems with ambulation and fine motor tasks, like using his hands, or significantly limits his activities or daily living or social functioning. To qualify, a person must have worked a certain amount in the past.

Supplemental Security Insurance

• If a person doesn’t qualify for SSDI because she hasn’t worked enough in the past, she may qualify for Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI). She must meet certain income guidelines to qualify.

State Disability

• Some states have short-term disability programs that provide coverage for those unable to work due to rheumatoid arthritis. People sometimes rely on state disability while they wait to get approved for Social Security disability payments.

Short-Term Disability Insurance

• Short-term disability insurance policies usually cover people that must be off work for a short time due to rheumatoid arthritis. Terms vary from policy to policy, though.

Medicare and Medicaid

• If someone qualifies for SSDI, they also will qualify for Medicare after two years. If someone qualifies for SSI, they probably will qualify for Medicaid. Medicare and Medicaid both cover treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, as well as other conditions.