Lorilie if your husband can no longer work because of the effects of arthritis, pain and medication, then start the application as soon as possible. It takes a while to go through the process. Many people are turned down at the first application and have to go through the appeals process.

When you fill out the application do it on paper not the computer and explain how the arthritis, pain, medication effects etc. affect his ability to sit, stand, crawl, bend, lift, concentrate etc. which is the reason he can no longer work. dont just list medical conditions. relate how those conditions limit ability to do work. This is very important. This is what SS is looking for, the ability to work and why its limited not just what diseases or conditions. Dont forget to explain the limitations placed on him by the side effects of medicine and pain. lack of concentration, fatigue etc. good luck.