Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a serious autoimmune disease that can significantly limit a person’s ability to work. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear on the joints, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect multiple organs and cause daily pain, stiffness, swelling, and fatigue. For many individuals in Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Aiken, and across Georgia and South Carolina, RA can make it impossible to maintain full-time employment.
If your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms prevent you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. At Stephen H. Hagler LLC, we help individuals with disabling medical conditions navigate the complex Social Security process and fight for the benefits they deserve.
When Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Qualify for Disability Benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes rheumatoid arthritis as a potentially disabling condition. However, approval is not automatic. To receive SSDI or SSI, you must demonstrate that RA prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 consecutive months.
You may qualify for disability benefits if:
1. Your RA Severely Limits Your Mobility or Dexterity
Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the hands, knees, feet, wrists, and shoulders. If inflammation, joint deformities, or chronic pain make it difficult to walk, stand, grip, or lift, you may meet Social Security’s criteria.
2. You Experience Systemic Symptoms
RA is more than a joint disease. It can also cause:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Anemia
- Lung inflammation
- Cardiovascular complications
Severe systemic symptoms can further impact your ability to work.
3. You Have Documented Joint Damage or Deformity
Imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds that show erosion or deformity can strengthen your disability claim.
4. You Cannot Perform Your Previous Work or Adjust to New Work
Even if you cannot return to your old job, Social Security may deny your claim unless you prove you cannot perform other types of employment. This is where medical records, functional assessments, and strong legal representation become essential.
5. Your Condition Meets SSA’s “Blue Book” Listing 14.09
Social Security has a specific listing for inflammatory arthritis. You may qualify if you have:
- Persistent inflammation or deformity in major joints
- Inflammation in joints in both arms or both legs
- Frequent flare-ups that limit functioning
- Involvement of at least two organs or body systems
Even if you don’t meet the exact listing, you may still be approved based on your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) — a determination of what you can and cannot do despite your condition.
Supporting Evidence Is Critical for RA Disability Claims
Social Security requires strong medical documentation. Evidence may include:
- Rheumatologist evaluations
- Lab tests like rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP
- Imaging showing joint damage
- Records of medications such as DMARDs or biologics
- Notes describing flare-ups, fatigue, and physical limitations
Many claims are initially denied due to missing or incomplete information, which is why having an experienced disability attorney makes a significant difference.
Our Contingency Fee Structure: No Fee Unless You Win
All rheumatoid arthritis disability cases at Stephen H. Hagler LLC are handled on a contingency basis. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You owe nothing unless we win your case
- If successful, we receive only a percentage of your past-due benefits, capped by federal law
Since all attorneys are required to charge the same capped percentage, choosing the right lawyer should be based on experience and ability, not cost.
With more than 30 years of experience helping clients throughout Georgia and South Carolina, Stephen H. Hagler, Attorney at Law, understands how to navigate Social Security’s strict requirements and build strong cases that demonstrate true disability.
Why Choose Stephen H. Hagler LLC for Your RA Disability Claim?
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis face unique challenges, from unpredictable flare-ups to permanent joint damage. We understand the medical and functional limitations associated with RA and know what Social Security is looking for in an approval.
We help you:
- Collect and organize essential medical records
- Communicate with your doctors about functional limitations
- Prepare strong evidence showing why you cannot work
- Represent you at hearings before Administrative Law Judges
- Appeal denials and fight for the benefits you deserve
Residents across the Augusta area, including Fort Gordon, Grovetown, North Augusta, Aiken, and surrounding communities, trust our firm for knowledgeable, compassionate representation.
Get the Help You Need — Starting Today
If rheumatoid arthritis is preventing you from working, you may be entitled to SSDI or SSI benefits. Let Stephen H. Hagler LLC guide you through the process and fight for the support you need.
Contact our Augusta office today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence and experienced legal advocacy on your side.
Posted on behalf of Stephen H. Hagler, LLC