Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy is a medical condition that causes weakness and paralysis on one side of the face. While the condition is usually temporary, Bell’s Palsy can affect one’s ability to earn a living. Many clients are curious as to whether they may qualify for SSD.

Although the SSA may grant SSD benefits to a person who has Bell’s Palsy, it is not automatic. You will need compelling medical evidence to make a strong claim. That’s where having an experienced disability benefits attorney will make a difference.

If you or a loved one has Bell’s Palsy and you would like to explore your legal options, turn to Pond Lehocky Disability.

What Is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s Palsy is a form of temporary paralysis that affects the facial muscles. It causes weakness and a drooping appearance on one side (or, rarely, both sides) of the face. A patient may have a lopsided smile or an eyelid that is unable to close all the way. The condition usually results from inflammation of the nerves affecting the facial muscles.

In most cases, Bell’s Palsy isn’t serious and the condition clears up on its own in a few weeks or months. These are a few common symptoms you should know about:

Can You Get Social Security Disability for Bell’s Palsy?

You may be eligible for SSD benefits if your Bell’s Palsy prevents you from being able to work. The SSA does not consider the condition a disability, and it is not listed in their Blue Book. A person who has this condition can request SSD if they are unable to work for more than one year. The SSA may evaluate the person’s condition and conclude it is a neurological or speech disorder.

Some with Bell’s Palsy have related issues like diabetes and high blood pressure. It may be beneficial to apply for disability when you have multiple conditions. Regardless, you will need to meet the SSA’s strict eligibility rules.

The SSA’s Disability Criteria for Bell’s Palsy Claims

The SSA will consider several factors of a Bell’s Palsy claim, such as:

How Bell’s Palsy Can Impact Your Ability to Work

Bell’s Palsy can severely inhibit your ability to hold a job in the following ways:

Medical Evidence You Need for a Bell’s Palsy Claim

When it comes to claiming disability, medical evidence is the most important factor. The SSA must be convinced that the patient’s Bell’s Palsy is severe before it will pay any disability. You should gather the following medical evidence to support your claim:

• Medical records. You should provide records from all doctors who are involved in treating you. These documents should have the dates of visits and how your condition is doing. It should also note which treatments were provided and their effects.
• Diagnostic test results. Imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans, and EMG tests, help doctors evaluate nerve damage. This may indicate Bell’s Palsy. These tests can confirm whether the patient’s nerves have experienced functional loss.
• Statements from your doctors. Physician statements are powerful pieces of evidence. They show the details of a Bell’s Palsy diagnosis, including treatment and how you responded. It also tells what your prognosis is. These statements should also include your physical limitations, such as difficulty speaking.
• Evaluations from specialists. Similarly, any specialists you see should provide an evaluation of your condition. These statements can go into greater detail about your Bell’s Palsy. They can also explain whether specialized treatments and rehabilitation have been effective. If they have not, this is further evidence of your need for SSD.
• Medications and therapies. Other important medical documentation concerns the medicines and treatments you have taken. For instance, you may take antiviral medication, steroid treatment, or receive physical therapy.

Why You Need a Disability Lawyer for a Bell’s Palsy Claim

Claiming disability is not as simple as filling out a form and waiting for the SSA to issue payments. Many initial claims are rejected, even though they are valid and well-documented. An attorney can help improve your chances of a successful SSD claim by:

• Gathering your medical evidence. We will contact your medical providers and get the documents you need for your claim. We know where and how to get this information.
• Applying early. The process to win approval for an SSD Bell’s Palsy claim could take months, so the quicker you apply, the better. Let our firm expedite the process so you can get your claim moving.
• Handling all paperwork. The SSD process is largely driven by paperwork. We take the time to prepare all documents along with the necessary evidence. We will timely submit your claim to the proper office. We will follow through on communications with the SSA and others.
• Assisting with the appeals process. If your claim is denied, we will take the steps necessary to appeal the decision. There are several steps involved in an appeal. These include reconsideration and a hearing before an administrative law judge. Later, an Appeals Council review and a Federal District Court review may be necessary.
• Working on a contingency fee basis. We take SSD cases on a contingency basis, meaning that we do not receive any payment if you do not win your claim. You will therefore never pay out of pocket for our disability legal services.

Common Reasons SSD Claims for Bell’s Palsy Are Denied

The SSA will most commonly deny disability claims for Bell’s Palsy for these reasons:

• There is insufficient medical evidence.
• The application is incomplete or inaccurate.
• The applicant earns too much money.
• The applicant has an insufficient work history. S/he does not have enough work credits to qualify.
• The applicant is too young. The SSA grants more leeway to those over age 50 because it is more difficult for them to find and train for a new job.
• The applicant fails to properly appeal after an initial claim denial.
• The SSA schedules the applicant for an examination, but the applicant fails to show up.
• The applicant fails to follow a prescribed treatment plan.
• The disability is not expected to last for longer than 12 months.
• The applicant does not respond in time to questions or correspondence from the SSA.