Disability

Disability Benefits

If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may be concerned about continuing to work and make a living for yourself and your family. Because Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, you may find work more challenging as time goes on. Fortunately, there is help available for you.

The following contains detailed information on the different types of disability insurance that will provide benefits to those with Parkinson’s, including what is required to be covered, how to apply, and more.

Long-Term Disability Insurance

Long-term disability (LTD) insurance replaces all or a percentage of your income if you cannot work due to a covered disability. LTD insurance is either purchased on an individual basis through an agent or directly from the insurance company, or it is received through one’s employer. Applying for LTD benefits with a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be a complicated and difficult process.

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a government disability benefit program that is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These benefits are paid on a monthly basis to disabled workers who qualify under the SSA’s rules. Like any insurance benefits, the rules and stipulations are complicated.

VA Disability Compensation for Veterans with Parkinson’s

VA disability compensation benefits are monthly, tax-free, benefits that are paid to U.S. military veterans with disabilities that are connected to their active duty military service.  These benefits are administered and paid by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Other Types of Disability Benefits

Besides the above, there are other types of disability insurance that can afford benefits to those with Parkinson’s disease.


APDA makes this information available solely for the purpose of general education. It is not intended as specific advice for your specific circumstance or as legal, insurance or medical advice. APDA encourages those who find this information useful to contact a legal advisor for answers to specific questions and assistance. The following information was graciously provided by the disability law firm of Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD, with support from Douglas L. DuMond of Simian Advisors LLC. APDA does not endorse any disability law firm or have a formal affiliation with CCK or Simian Advisors LLC.