If you’ve been diagnosed with a progressive neurological disease like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), you know how quickly the ability to work can slip away. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) exists to support people in exactly this situation—but the application process can still be complex, and denials are common even for severe conditions.
At PLBH, we help employees across California file and appeal SSDI claims for disabling conditions like ALS, multiple system atrophy (MSA), and other neurodegenerative diseases. Here’s what you need to know to give your claim the strongest possible chance of approval.
Understanding How SSA Views ALS and Similar Conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a “Listing of Impairments” that automatically qualify for benefits if certain medical criteria are met. ALS is one of the conditions listed under 11.10 (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). That means if your medical records clearly show an ALS diagnosis and evidence of substantial functional impairment, your application should be fast-tracked.
Other progressive neurological diseases, like:
- Multiple system atrophy
- Primary lateral sclerosis
- Corticobasal degeneration
- Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
may also qualify under other listings, depending on the symptoms they cause. The key is demonstrating how the condition impairs your ability to work full-time.
What Medical Evidence Should You Include?
For ALS and other neurological conditions, the SSA looks at how the disease affects your motor function, speech, cognition, and daily activities. To support your SSDI claim, your documentation should include:
- A confirmed diagnosis from a neurologist
- Clinical notes tracking progression over time
- Test results such as EMG or nerve conduction studies
- Functional assessments showing limitations in mobility, balance, speech, or fine motor skills
- Statements from your treating physician about your long-term prognosis and inability to work
Because ALS is a Compassionate Allowances condition, the SSA may process your claim more quickly—but only if your paperwork is complete and clear.
Demonstrating the Impact on Work Capacity
SSDI is not just about proving you have a condition—it’s about showing you can’t maintain full-time work because of it. That means you’ll need to illustrate how your neurological symptoms interfere with basic job functions, such as:
- Standing or walking for extended periods
- Lifting or carrying items
- Using your hands for typing or tools
- Communicating clearly with others
- Concentrating or remembering tasks
If fatigue, pain, spasms, or cognitive decline interfere with consistent performance, that needs to be carefully documented in your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Despite the severity of ALS and similar diseases, many claims are denied due to technical errors or lack of detail. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Not including full medical records from all providers
- Failing to describe functional limitations in everyday activities
- Leaving out statements from doctors about your inability to work
- Applying too early without adequate documentation of how the condition impacts your job
An experienced disability attorney can help you avoid these issues and submit a well-supported application the first time.
Need Help Filing or Appealing a Claim?
If you’re struggling with a progressive neurological condition, you shouldn’t have to fight for financial support alone. At PLBH, we understand how disabling these illnesses can be—and how the SSDI system works. Whether you’re filing your first claim or appealing a denial, we’ll guide you through every step with compassion and clarity.
Call (800) 435-7542 today for a free consultation. Let’s fight for the benefits you deserve.