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Neuropathy can be a debilitating condition to live with and manage. You may be entitled to Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. After you apply, your claim will be evaluated. Upon approval, you could receive regular checks to help you cover your expenses.
Unfortunately, the process of filing a claim is not always straightforward. People with neuropathy can be denied on their claims to the SSA. It is in your best interest to reach out to an experienced lawyer from Pond Lehocky Disability now.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is nerve damage that leads to weakness, numbness, tingling, or pain. This can be present in one or more parts of your body. Neuropathy comes in many forms, and there is no one cause for why it happens.
Neuropathy is not curable. Treatment comes through the management of symptoms to improve quality of life.
Many people who suffer from neuropathy are unable to continue working. This is due to constant pain or loss of motor functionality. They need to file for SSD benefits to help support themselves as they manage their condition.
The unfortunate reality is that many claims get denied. Some common reasons for denial include:
- Clerical errors or filing a claim incorrectly.
- Misunderstanding the laws and regulations surrounding who can get SSD benefits.
- Insufficient evidence to support their claim.
- Unable to understand the filing process and making mistakes during appeals.
- Pre-existing conditions get conflated with neuropathy symptoms.
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to save money and pay out the least amount possible. It is not in their best interest to maximize your benefits. This is true even for a serious condition like neuropathy.
Any of the above reasons, while legitimate, could be twisted against your claim to get you to settle for less. If you feel like your denial is unjust, remember that you do not have to settle for their decision. You can always appeal and fight for your benefits.
Can You Get Social Security Disability for Neuropathy?
Yes, you can. Most forms of neuropathy are considered disabilities. This means that you could qualify for SSD benefits.
If you provide evidence for your condition and meet the criteria set by the SSA, there should not be any issues. Still, it is wise to get in touch with a lawyer to ensure your claim is airtight and at minimum risk for denial.
Types of Neuropathy that May Qualify for SSD Benefits
There are many types of neuropathy. Here are three that may qualify for SSD benefits:
- Peripheral Neuropathy – This affects nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
- Autonomic Neuropathy – This affects involuntary bodily functions. These include blood pressure, digestion, etc.
- Diabetic Neuropathy – Caused by diabetes. This affects the lower half of the body, primarily the feet and legs.
Even if your condition is not listed above, that does not mean you should give up. It is still worth applying for benefits and getting in touch with a lawyer to see what course of action is best for you.
What Medical Evidence Do I Need for a Neuropathy SSA Claim?
The SSA requires the following medical evidence to consider your neuropathy claim:
- Laboratory findings that show evidence of neuropathy, including MRIs, EEGs, CTs, x-rays, etc.
- An official written diagnosis from a doctor or specialist confirming your condition.
- Descriptions of current or past prescribed treatments and how you respond to them
- Statements from those who can speak to the impact of your condition on your personal and work life.
The above is only a short list. It is best to collect as much evidence as possible in the beginning, even if it seems irrelevant. Then, you can sort out what best supports your claim.
It is important to begin documenting things immediately if you have not already. Then, take the time to ensure all evidence is proper and accounted for.
How Neuropathy Can Impact Your Ability to Work
Neuropathy impacts more than just your personal life. In a professional environment, neuropathy can make work impossible.
For example, neuropathy impacts motor skills. This can make doing both physically strenuous and intellectually taxing tasks nearly impossible. Neuropathy can even make basic tasks at work feel like a gargantuan task.
In short, neuropathy prevents people from functioning normally at work. This, in turn, directly impacts work output and performance negatively. With a serious enough neurological condition, you are unable to return to work.
Why You Need an SSD Lawyer for a Neuropathy Claim
An SSD lawyer is essential for your neuropathy claim. Your lawyer will help ensure your claim is as polished as possible. We help things go smoothly, even in the event of any roadblocks or denials. A lawyer will:
- File all legal paperwork correctly and represent your best interests at all times.
- Help you gather crucial evidence for your claim and ensure nothing gets left out.
- Accurately determine how much you should receive in your benefits.
As you can see, an SSD lawyer will do more than just give you paperwork and instructions. A good lawyer by your side can make all the difference in your fight for your SSD benefits.
Legal Help for Appeals and Hearings
Should your SSD benefits claim get denied, there is still hope. A lawyer can help with your appeal and any hearings you may have to do during that process.
The fight is not over simply because you get denied. Your lawyer will help you through the entire appeals process.
Talk to an SSD Lawyer for Help with Your Neuropathy Claim
Let Pond Lehocky Disability help you with your neuropathy claim today. We have recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients.
We handle cases across all 50 states. Get in touch with us today for a risk-free consultation.
