It is easy to think you will always be healthy, but unexpected difficulties can disrupt your life. A motor vehicle collision, surgical error, or workplace accident can leave you with a significant physical injury that affects your ability to work and earn the income you need to pay your bills. Alternatively, you may have a condition that worsens over time, and your only option is to stop working because of the pain or physical limitations. Thankfully, federal programs could provide financial assistance during this difficult time.
Since 1968, our SSDI attorneys at Thurswell Law have been helping people with their Michigan physical social security claims and providing support throughout the process. We could help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a case. The benefits could help you get your life back in order and regain a sense of stability.
Prepare for the Application Process
You must first determine eligibility when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Michigan for a physical injury. The federal Social Security Administration (SSA) manages SSDI, so there are strict criteria for potential applicants. For instance, you must have worked a minimum number of years and, accordingly, paid into the Social Security system, to be eligible for benefits. Most workers fulfill this part, but the other criteria could pose challenges.
Your injury must be so significant that it effectively prevents you from working for 12 consecutive months or longer or is expected to result in death. Some examples of the physical conditions that SSDI covers include various types of paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, and many forms of cancer.
This is where many applicants err, as they must provide extensive documentation regarding their injury or condition, such as:
- Medical records from all doctors and specialists
- Details of the previous job
- The impact of the injury on the current performance of those duties
- Anything else that could create a clear and understandable story without any gaps
Sometimes, the reviewer of the application may still have questions and ask the applicant for a special physical exam with an SSA doctor. While the agency typically pays for this test, including some travel expenses, it often results in a delay in receiving benefits.
What if the Claim Is Denied?
Despite gathering all the necessary documents, developing a cohesive story, and perhaps even going through the special exam, the SSA may still deny your application. However, you may appeal this decision and present your case in front of an administrative law judge.
While this can feel intimidating, legal representation could be critical to success. A lawyer experienced with appealing physical SSDI claims in the Michigan courts knows how to best present the evidence and convince the judge to overturn the denial.
Contact One of Our Attorneys in Michigan To Start Your SSDI Application for a Physical Injury
If you cannot work because of your condition, one of our attorneys could guide you in receiving much-needed financial assistance, from preparing the application to appealing a denial. Our attorneys at Thurswell Law have decades of experience dealing with Michigan physical Social Security claims, and we could support you from start to finish.
We have been getting results for clients since 1968, and we are here for you. Contact Thurswell Law today for an initial consultation with a member of our team.
