We have a comprehensive understanding of the Social Security/Disability process
Social Security Disability Types
SSD Attorneys Looking Out for You
It’s overwhelming to face a long-term impairment that prevents you from working. While Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits offer support, many individuals don’t know whether they qualify. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes numerous conditions that can qualify alongside other criteria, but navigating the system is challenging without guidance. At First Ally Law Group in Ballwin, MO, we help individuals throughout the St. Louis area secure SSD benefits. Whether you struggle with physical impairments, mental limitations, or a combination of the two, we’ll provide the support you need. Contact one of our Social Security Disability attorneys today to discuss your situation and determine whether you’re eligible.Social Security Disability Benefit Qualifications
You must meet specific legal and medical criteria to qualify for SSD benefits. The most notable factor is proving that your medical condition prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In other words, your impairment must be so severe that it limits your ability to work and earn a living. Documented medical evidence is crucial to demonstrate the extent of your disability. Additionally, your condition must either last for at least 12 months or have a prognosis resulting in death. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, speaking with an SSD attorney can help you gain clarity. Should you be eligible, your lawyer can assist you in providing ample evidence for the two key requirements:- Proof of disability: You must provide medical proof that your impairment prevents you from working and is expected to either last 12 months or result in death.
- Insured status: You must have worked and paid FICA taxes for five out of the last ten years before becoming disabled to be “insured” under Social Security. This equates to earning 20 credits out of a possible 40. Younger individuals under the age of 31 may need fewer credits to qualify.
- The SSA will inform you if you meet the insured status requirement when you apply for benefits.
- Family members may also be eligible for benefits based on another’s insured status in some situations.
What Types of Disabilities Qualify?
The SSA classifies disabilities as conditions that significantly limit a person’s ability to fulfill basic work duties. Both physical and mental limitations can qualify, and the SSA maintains a list of recognized conditions – the “Blue Book.”
The list of SSA-recognized disabilities is expansive. However, below are common conditions that typically qualify for benefits so long as the applicant meets the core requirements:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve conditions or injuries that affect the joints, bones, or muscles, impairing movement and limiting work ability. Examples include the following:
- Degenerative arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Spinal cord injuries, such as bulging or herniated discs
- Chronic back pain
Cardiovascular Conditions
Various heart-related issues that prevent everyday functions are frequently cited in SSD benefits applications and claims. Common examples include:
- Heart disease
- Chronic arrhythmias
- Congestive heart failure
- Valve disease
Neurological Disorders
Neurological disorders can significantly hinder motor skills, cognitive functions, and quality of life. Eligible conditions typically include:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Epilepsy with uncontrolled seizures
- Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
- Stroke-related impairments
Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or asthma can qualify for SSD benefits so long as they cause notable limitations. Another respiratory condition gaining attention is sleep apnea, which may qualify under the appropriate circumstances.
As with any physical or mental condition, determining whether you can get disability for sleep apnea and related impairments depends on the severity and if it disrupts your working capacity. You must submit medical evidence, like sleep studies and other records, showing how the disorder limits your daily activities.
Mental Health Conditions
Mental impairments can be just as debilitating as physical ones – and sometimes, even more so. Commonly recognized mental health conditions include:
- Schizophrenia
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety disorders
The approval rate for schizophrenia and other mental illnesses depends on how well your medical records stress its severity and impact on your work. When you choose First Ally Law Group, we’ll help you compile the required information to increase your chances of getting approval for SSD benefits.
Cancer
Specific types of cancer can automatically qualify based on past cases, while others rest upon how advanced it is and how it affects your daily life. Common qualifiers include:
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
If your cancer diagnosis has made work impossible, you may qualify for SSD benefits. It’s especially the case when your treatment is extensive, and your doctors believe recovery will last for a significant period.
The Adult Function Report
An essential part of the Social Security Disability benefits application process is completing the Adult Function Report. Used to assess whether your impairment prevents you from performing basic tasks at work and home, the Function Report asks detailed questions about your condition and its effects on your day-to-day life.
While it may seem stressful, rest assured that our SSD lawyers will help you. We’ll ensure your application fully represents the challenges you face each day.
Increasing Your Approval Chances
Although the SSA clearly outlines numerous conditions in its “Blue Book,” qualifying for benefits most often depends on submitting thorough and detailed medical documentation.
- Medical records: Official reports from doctors, specialists, and hospitals outlining your conditions, treatments, and prognoses
- Diagnostic tests: Imaging, lab work, or clinical tests demonstrating your condition’s severity
- Functionality assessments: Notes from healthcare providers on how your impairments negatively impact your ability to perform essential functions like standing, walking, lifting, or concentrating
Why You Need an Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney
Applying for SSD benefits can be complex and often frustrating, especially when the SSA denies many claims at the initial stage. Partnering with experienced Social Security Disability lawyers can significantly improve your chances of approval.
At First Ally Law Group, we have years of experience handling complex disability applications and claims for numerous conditions. We can guide you through the process, gather all required documents, and represent you before Social Security in appeals should they deny your initial claim.
You can trust that we’ll work closely with you to ensure that we present your case in the strongest possible way. We’re on your side and will advocate for you at every step.
We Can Help You Obtain SSD Benefits
If a medical condition prevents you from substantial gainful activity, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. At First Ally Law Group, we understand what you’re going through – we’ll help you navigate the entire process.
Don’t let a denied claim keep you from the benefits you deserve. Contact our disability attorneys in Ballwin, MO, today to schedule a consultation. Let’s start your journey to securing benefits.
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A personal approach
At First Ally, we get to know our clients, the judges, and experts. We’ve designed our firm around individuals – our clients’ needs as individuals; understanding individual judges’ approaches; and individual questions tailored towards specific experts. This personalized approach helps us prove why and how our individual clients’ disabilities keep them from working full-time jobs.