If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness then many SSD attorneys will offer you advice free of charge and encourage you to file on your own; however, if the diagnosis is not terminal or unclear, then it may be best for you to hire a representative. A diagnosis of a terminal illness can be devastating and can send you and your family on an emotional roller coaster. Physical pain, becoming sick after treatment – attendance at your job may suffer for many reasons after this diagnosis. You may decide that it’s time to file for disability benefits. When you begin the process you may start to see that it’s not as easy as you thought it might be. The Social Security Administration has many rules and regulations when it comes to disability benefits. Each person’s medical history is unique and their diagnosis and treatment is different from others who have been diagnosed as well. Getting the advice of an experienced attorney, even if just a short conversation to point you in the right direction, will help you in preparing your claim. If you have in fact been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you may only need a few questions answered to receive the disability benefits you deserve. Most SSD law firms offer a free case review, and if you have a terminal illness, you may be able to get the information you need from a short conversation with a knowledgeable attorney or experienced staff member during this free case review. If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and were denied benefits, then most attorneys would take your case and help you appeal as quickly as possible. The following conditions (not a comprehensive list, but just a few examples) are a few that could become terminal illnesses in some cases:
HIV/Aids
Depending on your symptoms or the recurrence of infection, an HIV diagnosis may not always be enough for benefits from Social Security. There are many people who live long lives and function with HIV. However, HIV, and certainly AIDS can be debilitating and disabling in some cases. In order to receive disability benefits, you have to prove that you cannot work because of the severe symptoms of your disease. If HIV has progressed into AIDS and your condition is terminal, then you will have a very strong case for benefits. Talking with an experienced lawyer could help you build the best case possible.
Liver Disease
Whether you’re suffering because of hepatitis, cirrhosis, or from alcohol abuse, when the liver starts to fail, it can be debilitating. Receiving benefits for this disease is not always an easy process through Social Security, especially if there is a history of drug and/or alcohol use, or current drug and/or alcohol use. If your medical condition is irreversible and would remain even if you were to stop using drugs or alcohol, and if your condition is severe enough, you should be eligible for disability benefits. Speak with an expert to ensure that you are applying, appealing, and being represented properly.
Cancer
Not all cancers diagnoses are treated the same by the Social Security Administration when it comes to disability benefits. A few of the variables that they evaluate you on are the origin of malignancy, extent, response to therapy, or any residual cancer that is left over after treatment. This diagnosis can take a big toll on you mentally and physically. Reduce the added stress of filing for benefits on your own. Contact a professional for help; it’s important to have an experienced disability benefits attorney to answer your questions.
If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition and are interested in seeking disability benefits, contact The Clauson Law Firm, PLLC. Visit www.clausonlaw.com for information about their legal services.
