The Law Office of Carey Thompson, PC regularly assists clients in Texas who are seeking disability benefits for physical impairments. Although Social Security provides benefits for a wide range of disabling conditions, proving that you qualify can be difficult. Our experienced disability attorneys have the skills and experience to win you the benefits you deserve.
Well-versed in the official list of qualifying physical impairments, we will guide you through the claims process and make sure your rights are protected. Whether you need assistance with an initial claim or a disability appeal, we can help. Our legal team has a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of the disabled with a proven history of achieving positive outcomes in disability claims.
Because we understand your physical and emotional challenges, you will not pay attorney’s fees until we obtain disability benefits for you. Please contact our El Paso office today for a free consultation.
Am I eligible for disability benefits?
To qualify for disability benefits you must have a physical impairment that is expected to last at least one year and prevent you from working. In addition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a list (the “Blue Book) of the following qualifying impairments:
- Musculoskeletal problems — back, joint, and muscle injuries
- Cardiovascular conditions — congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis
- Senses and speech issues — hearing/vision loss
- Respiratory ailments — COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer
- Digestive tract disorders — liver disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease
- Kidney disease and genitourinary problems — kidney failure, chronic renal failure, organ damage due to a medical condition (e.g. diabetes), kidney cancer, bladder cancer
- Neurological disorders — cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy
- Endocrine disorders — Type-1 diabetes, Type-2 diabetes, thyroid cancer
- Immune system disorders — HIV/AIDS, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
- Skin disorders — skin cancers, dermatitis
- Hematological (blood ) disorders — hemolytic anemias, bone marrow failure
- Cancer – certain advanced or metastatic cancers
If you have one of the physical impairments listed above, you generally qualify for benefits, as long as you meet both the technical and medical eligibility requirements. To qualify for benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, for example, you must have paid into the Social Security system through income tax deductions and acquired sufficient work credits. To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must be able to demonstrate financial need.
In both cases, you must provide medical evidence that proves you have a listed physical impairment. At the same time, you may also be eligible for disability benefits if your condition is not included on the SSA’s list, as long as it is medically equivalent to a listed impairment.
How Social Security Evaluates Disability Claims for Physical Impairments
Once a disability examiner determines you meet the technical eligibility requirements, your claim will be reviewed by Disability Determination Services (DDC). The SSA’s Blue Book is only intended to be a guide and a number of factors will be considered to determine whether your physical impairment qualifies as a disability.
First, your condition must be “medically determinable,” which means that it can be diagnosed and described by doctors. To prove that your physical impairment is medically determinable, your claim must include a comprehensive medical record as well as statements provided by your doctor that describes the impairment and how it prevents you from working. Ultimately, your condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in your death.
In addition, the SSA will consider (1) whether your physical impairment prevents you from doing the same work you previously did and (2) whether you are capable of performing another type of work based on your age, education, and training — and the likelihood of you being able to learn new skills to perform other work.
In any event, disability claims for physical impairments are frequently denied. This is why it is critically important to consult with an experienced disability attorney. At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, we are highly experienced in all aspects of the claims process, from submitting the initial application to handling disability appeals.
We will work closely with you and your doctor to ensure that your claim includes the necessary medical evidence that supports your claim. In the event your claim is denied, we will help you navigate the disability appeal, including representing you at the disability appeal. Despite the fact that claim denials are common, working with an experienced disability attorney increases the likelihood of obtaining the benefits you deserve. Trust Carey Thompson and his dedicated legal team to stand by you every step of the way.
Contact Our Experienced Texas Disability Attorneys
If you cannot work due to a physical impairment, you probably have concerns about getting the medical treatment you need and being able to support yourself and your family. When you work with the Law Office of Carey Thompson, we will address those concerns by providing you with compassionate, efficient representation and fighting tirelessly for your rights. Contact our office today so we can start working on your disability claim.