Reaping the Benefits of Social Security

Threats of government shutdown foster nationwide concern over which federal programs would be affected. Although several activities would ultimately come to a standstill during the shutdown period, many were thankful to hear social security would function as usual.

Established in the 1930s as a safeguard for seniors during the Great Depression, social security now offers coverage for those unable to gain employment due to disability. The program is the largest of several federal initiatives to provide assistance for people with disabilities.

To minimize fraudulent collections, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has set up numerous checkpoints to ensure appropriate coverage is given when needed. However, the resulting complex framework can be difficult to navigate for anyone outside the legal profession.

The claims process begins with proof of previous employment and payment of social security taxes. The SSA will then review an individual’s unique situation and needs to determine if benefit eligibility exists. In general, the following conditions are recognized by the administration under social security disability:

  • Arthritis
  • Back, neck, hip, and knee injury
  • Various musculoskeletal disorders
  • Degenerative disk disease
  • Cancer
  • Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  • Leukemia
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Stroke, cardiac arrest
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain disorders
  • Brain, head trauma
  • Schizophrenia
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • ADHD/ADD
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Diabetes and associated neuropathies
  • Epilepsy, seizure disorder
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Hepatitis C
  • HIV/AIDS

However, if a claim has been rejected, applicants will then need to file an appeal request and contact the local social security office. Given the significant medical and income benefits at stake, it is in your best interest to secure an experienced Social Security Disability attorney who will guide you through the litigation process and assist you in preparing and presenting your claim before the Administrative Law Judge.

Typically, your chances of a successful appeal are much greater if an experienced firm like McAleer Law represents you. We can advocate for your rights, and may even be able to help you obtain a favorable ruling on your case even before your court date, as long as the medical records in your claim support an on-the-record ruling prior.

If you have questions about your Social Security Disability claim, don’t hesitate to call the experienced attorneys at McAleer Law.

About McAleer Law:

McAleer Law—Decatur, Georgia’s preeminent personal injury, worker’s compensation, and Social Security Disability firm—has been representing plaintiffs and injured workers for more than ten years. Specializing in lost wage, medical expense, pain/suffering, lost quality of life, and psychological injury cases, founder Charles McAleer guarantees his clients personal attention, diligence, and unparalleled service quality. For more information on Charles McAleer and the McAleer Law Firm visit www.McAleerLaw.com, “like” McAleer Law on Facebook, or follow @McAleerLawFirm on Twitter.