Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I am trying how to figure out filing and receiving disability benefits from the government because I was forced to quit work due to my disease. I do have an income from my previous job for the next five years. I sold my insurance agency, but the payments will end in 2029.

May 22, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I followed the same steps set out by the fiirst two respondents, and had no issues in securing my disability insurance.

May 22, 2025
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Make sure you have very clear documentation from your doctor that makes it easy for the judge to see the that your symptoms have progressively getting worse so that the quality of your work is compromised and you are not able to fully recover to baseline without great difficulty and causing disruption to other parts in your life outside of work. Judges in Maryland look at the history of your disease, other medical issue along with the requirements for your individual job and training/ education and determine your ability to be gainfully employed and for how long.
I had a lawyer that was not paid unless I was awarded full disability and he was paid with the money I would have collected from the date I had used as the first day of disability and it was very worth every penny it very long process in Maryland and takes two years and possibly a few appeals. I was lucky to have an amazing lawyer and was awarded full disability within the first half hour of the hearing and my lawyer did every single thing that was needed it helped to make sure any other medical issues are noted as well because stress is a big factor in the speed and severity of Parkinson disease progression good luck to you it’s a double edged sword being disabled at a young age stay healthy take care

May 22, 2025
MyParkinsonsTeam

First, congratulations on managing your career for so many years after your diagnosis - that shows incredible determination. Regarding disability benefits, it's important to start the application process as soon as possible since approvals can take time. While you have income from selling your business, you may still Show Full Answer

First, congratulations on managing your career for so many years after your diagnosis - that shows incredible determination. Regarding disability benefits, it's important to start the application process as soon as possible since approvals can take time. While you have income from selling your business, you may still qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based on your work history and medical condition.

The key steps are:
1. Gather all your medical records documenting your Parkinson's progression since 2007
2. Contact the Social Security Administration to begin your application
3. Have your neurologist provide detailed documentation about how your symptoms impact your ability to work
4. Consider working with a disability attorney who specializes in Parkinson's cases Your age and long work history may actually work in your favor for disability approval. The income from selling your business will need to be reported, but having this transition income doesn't automatically disqualify you from disability benefits. The most important factor will be demonstrating how your Parkinson's symptoms prevent you from continuing to work. Document all your symptoms and limitations carefully as part of your application.

May 22, 2025

Related Questions

View All