Many disabled workers have friends and relatives who give them advice about how to win–and lose–Social Security Disability benefits. While these friends and relatives are trying to help, they often have misinformation that convinces someone not to file for benefits. Often, that is a tragic error, because there are many things you can do, if you are disabled, that will not in themselves cause you to lose your case.
For instance, you can actually attempt to return to work and if you can’t handle the work in under three months, you are still entitled to benefits. Trying to get whatever enjoyment you can from life, despite your pain and limitations, will not keep you from getting benefits. You can spend time with your family and friends, you can take a small trip from time to time, or go to the movies or a concert. Doing light housework or exercise will not hurt your case. If you are religious, taking comfort by going to church will not hurt your case. In addition, you are not required to stay with your doctor if you become unhappy with his or her treatment.
Just because you are disabled from work does not mean that you are housebound 24/7. It is important that when your friends and family give you advice about Social Security Disability, you check that advice with an experienced attorney.
HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE TO WIN SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?
First, for those individuals who have a terminal illness or who are profoundly disabled, the Social Security Administration may approve your benefits immediately-even as quickly as a month. Otherwise, it can take two months, or in some cases, a few years, to win your case and receive benefits. Some applications are approved at the Initial Level, a process that takes just a few months.
Unfortunately, most applications are denied at the initial level and must be appealed, to request a hearing before a Judge. Even at the hearings level, cases are often denied and further appeals must be considered, and filed within a limited time period. Clearly, it can be a long and difficult road to secure benefits, and an experienced attorney can help you navigate through the complicated steps, secure the necessary medical evidence, and try to expedite your claim by presenting it in the best possible way.
FIBROMYALGIA AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS
Fibromyalgia is an often life-changing disease, causing muscle and joint pain, disabling fatigue, burning and/or stabbing sensations, swelling, and depression. It is one of the most common medical disorders.
If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. According to the Social Security Administration, “Widespread pain and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, such as fatigue, may result in exertional limitations that prevent a person from doing the full range of unskilled work in one or more of the exertional categories… People with fibromyalgia may also have nonexertional physical or mental limitations because of their pain or other symptoms. Some may have environmental restrictions, which are also nonexertional.”
FRACTURES, BROKEN BONES, METAL PLATES & SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY
If your broken bone or fracture fails to heal as expected, and keeps you out of work for a year or more, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. If your surgeon has put in a “plate” or “rod” that usually means that you have a serious break. Serious breaks and fractures can lead to other medical complications, including arthritis. These other complications can contribute to your overall disability, and may be viewed by the Social Security Administration as sufficient to award you benefits. There are many other factors that go into a decision to award benefits to a disabled person-please feel free to give a call to discuss your various medical conditions and symptoms with us.
