Can You Get Social Security Disability Benefits for Partial or Intermittent Disabilities in Alabama?

Living with a disability can make it difficult or even impossible to maintain steady employment. However, not every disabling condition is permanent or constant. If you have a partial or intermittent disability, you may wonder if you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Alabama.

At Spellen Law, we help individuals throughout Alabama understand their options for Social Security Disability benefits. If your condition limits your ability to work, even if it is not constant, you may still have a valid claim. Here’s what you need to know.

Does Social Security Approve Claims for Partial or Intermittent Disabilities?

You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits if you believe your medical condition meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) eligibility rules. However, it is important to understand that the SSA does not award benefits for partial disabilities the way some workers' compensation programs might.

Instead, the SSA requires:

• That your medical condition prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA)

• That your condition has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 continuous months or result in death

In other words, if your intermittent condition significantly restricts your ability to work over a 12-month period, you may still qualify for disability benefits.

Conditions That May Qualify for Disability Benefits

Many types of medical conditions that have episodic symptoms may qualify if they meet SSA standards.

These conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Lupus

• Epilepsy

• Certain mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder

• Chronic migraines

• Autoimmune diseases

• Severe asthma

Even if your symptoms come and go, if the overall effect of your condition limits your ability to perform full-time work consistently, you may have a strong claim.

At Spellen Law, we assist clients in reviewing whether their specific diagnosis meets the SSA’s listings in the Blue Book or qualifies through a medical-vocational assessment.

How Severe Does the Condition Need to Be?

The SSA considers the Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) of every applicant. Your RFC measures what work activities you can still perform despite your medical condition.

If your intermittent disability prevents you from:

• Sitting, standing, or walking for long periods

• Lifting or carrying objects

• Maintaining regular attendance and punctuality

• Concentrating for extended periods

you may still be eligible for benefits based on a combination of your limitations, your age, your education, and your work history.

Important: In Alabama and across the country, SSA reviewers expect detailed medical documentation. Gaps in treatment or insufficient records can lead to a denial, even if your disability is legitimate.

What to Do If Your Disability Claim Was Denied

It is common for claims based on intermittent or partial disabilities to be denied at first. If your initial application was denied, you still have the right to appeal.

In Alabama, you must file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. If your reconsideration is denied, you can then request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

At Spellen Law, we assist clients at every stage of the appeals process, gathering stronger evidence and preparing your case for review.

Why Work with a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Alabama?

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be complex, especially when dealing with intermittent or fluctuating symptoms. A knowledgeable lawyer can help by:

• Reviewing your medical records for missing or incomplete information

• Coordinating with your healthcare providers for stronger documentation

• Preparing you for hearings and appeals

• Presenting your case clearly to Social Security decision-makers

Having professional legal support may significantly improve your chances of approval.

At Spellen Law, we are committed to helping individuals across Alabama pursue the disability benefits they deserve. We understand how difficult living with a disabling condition can be, and we are here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Get in touch with us today at 205-820-9474.