Chicago Paralysis Attorneys
Illinois Social Security Disability Lawyers
Paralysis is the loss of muscle function, which may also be accompanied by a sensory loss in the affected area. Paralysis is most often caused by damage to the central nervous system, especially the spinal cord. Other causes of paralysis include stroke, catastrophic accidents, botulism, spina bifida, and multiple sclerosis.
If you are paralyzed and unable to work as a result of your condition, you may be eligible for social security disability benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim. In order to receive social security disability benefits, a person must suffer from a physical or mental medical condition that prevents him or her from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Types of Benefits and Eligibility Requirements
If you are unable to work due to paralysis, you may be eligible for SSDI benefits if you have enough “work credits” through the payment of social security taxes deducted from previous paychecks. The number of work “credits” required to receive SSDI varies depending on your age at the time of disability. For more information, the calculation of work credits, visit https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/credits.html.
If you have limited income and resources and are unable to work due to paralysis, you may be eligible for SSI benefits. SSI laws limit the amount of assets you may own to $2,000 (or $3000 in the case of a married couple if both receive SSI). Certain property is excluded when determining the value of your assets.
Social Security Disability Claims Process
The social security disability claim process begins by filing an application with the Social Security Administration. The application requires comprehensive and detailed information regarding your paralysis, your employment history and your financial situation. If your social security disability claim is denied, a Request for Reconsideration may be filed with the State Disability Determination Agency and a new administrative law judge may be assigned to review the claim. If a Request for Reconsideration of your social security disability claim is denied, a Request for Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge may then be filed.
Compassionate Legal Advice
If you are paralyzed and unable to work as a result of your condition, contact the Chicago social security disability attorneys at Ankin Law at (872) 529-9377 to schedule your free consultation to learn more about the possibility of receiving social security disability benefits.
