Few disability lawyers understand Huntington’s disease. Thomas Stewart co-authored a clinician’s guide on HD disability claims for the Journal of Huntington’s Disease, written with the Huntington’s Disease Society of America — and he is also a licensed physician assistant. For HD families, that depth is very hard to find anywhere else.
The HD symptoms that decide a claim — and what they mean for work
HD affects movement, thinking, and mood at the same time, and it is that combination that disables. A strong claim connects each symptom to a concrete reason full-time work is no longer possible:
- Chorea and loss of coordination → limited standing, walking, and hand use. Involuntary movements create a fall risk and undercut the standing, walking, and fine hand tasks most jobs require.
- Cognitive decline → limited to simple work, and off task. Losses in attention, memory, and executive function are often the strongest basis for a claim — they can restrict you to simple, routine tasks with no transferable skills.
- Apathy → can’t initiate or sustain tasks. Difficulty starting and finishing work without constant prompting means you can’t stay on task the ~85% of the day a job requires.
- Irritability and mood changes → can’t work with others. Trouble interacting appropriately with coworkers and supervisors can rule out competitive work on its own.
- Speech and swallowing problems → further limits as the disease progresses.
How Social Security evaluates HD
HD is reviewed under listing 11.17 (neurodegenerative disease) and, often more importantly, listing 12.02 (neurocognitive disorders). Many patients qualify on the cognitive listing — with significant neuropsychological testing findings — even before motor symptoms become severe. See how Social Security disability decisions work →
Why timing and documentation win HD claims
Timing matters with HD. Symptoms often pre-date diagnosis, and apathy and limited awareness of one’s own symptoms can delay applying — which can put benefits at risk. We move quickly, and we know how to document cognitive testing, motor decline, and the day-to-day limitations Social Security looks for. Because HD is progressive, showing change over time is what makes a record persuasive.
Talk with a Huntington’s disability lawyer
No fee unless you win — 25% of past-due benefits, capped at $9,200. We represent HD clients nationwide, including private long-term disability (ERISA) claims managed alongside SSDI. Start your free case review → or call (720) 301-9708.
