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Prader-Willi Syndrome is a complex genetic disorder. It can be challenging when trying to obtain Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Hiring a lawyer is often necessary to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Obtaining Social Security Disability benefits can be challenging to do on your own. That’s why it is best to seek help from an experienced lawyer.
Pond Lehocky has helped many clients fight for their benefits over the years. Having a lawyer by your side is important when filing a claim with the SSA.
Why Is Social Security Disability Important for Those with Prader-Willi Syndrome?
SSD benefits are important for those living with Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Monthly Income for Basic Living Costs
Those with Prader-Willi Syndrome may have intellectual disabilities that make regular employment difficult. SSD benefits can cover important costs like rent, food, clothing, and utilities.
For parents, these funds can help support their child. This is true as they age out of the workforce or have reduced earning capacity.
Coverage for Medical Expense
Prader-Willi Syndrome involves multiple medical conditions that require continued medical treatment to address. There is no cure. As such, management of the condition includes medications, doctor visits, and hospital stays. With SSD benefits, you can get comprehensive access to Medicare. This can greatly assist you in managing medical expenses.
SSD benefits can help offset or even fully cover the costs of specialized treatments. For example, many individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome benefit greatly from growth hormone therapy. However, this can be extremely costly, even with insurance coverage.
By receiving SSD benefits, you can potentially afford these types of specialized treatments. These will help improve the quality of life for yourself or your loved one.
Long-Term Financial Assistance and Specialized Programs
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a lifelong condition that requires permanent care to manage. SSD benefits let you plan for the future without using up your savings. There are also specialized programs that SSD benefits recipients can qualify for. These can improve their quality of life. They include housing assistance programs, food programs, and vocational training.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability
You can apply for SSD benefits in three steps:
- Gather all supporting documentation and medical history.
- Visit the SSD application website. Use their online portal to submit your application. Answer all questions correctly, thoroughly, and honestly.
- Track your application status on the online portal. Promptly follow up on any questions the SSA may have about your application.
You should receive an answer within six to eight months. Sometimes, you can receive an answer within as soon as 30 days; it all depends on the case.
In case of a longer wait time, we encourage you to double-check your claim to ensure everything is correct. Any errors can cause even further delays in the process.
Eligibility Requirements for Social Security Disability
There are several eligibility requirements you must meet to qualify for SSD benefits:
- You or your parents must have worked and contributed to Social Security.
- You must be 18 years of age or older.
- You must have documented proof of having a disability recognized by the SSA.
The above are general guidelines for SSD benefits. There are other qualifying criteria, but those are mainly reserved for special cases. It is best to get a professional opinion on your eligibility. Let us assist you in filing your application.
Why Do Social Security Disability Claims Get Denied?
SSD benefits get denied for many reasons. The primary reason is that the evidence you provided wasn’t strong enough for the SSA. Remember, rejection is not the end of the world. After waiting several months and doing everything right, they can still deny you. This is not a failure on your part, and there is still a chance you can get your benefits if you work with us.
How to Handle Getting Denied for Social Security Disability
The best way to handle your rejection is to appeal the decision. The appeals process involves contesting the answer given by the SSA. You do this by reopening your application for review. You will have another chance to provide further evidence to prove your case.
During this time, you must be able to provide the evidence that ensures you aren’t rejected again. That’s where we come in.
A Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You
Appealing can be just as difficult, if not more so, than the initial application process. With an SSDI lawyer on your side, you can enjoy such benefits as:
- Assistance in gathering all of your documents and medical evidence. Your lawyer will ensure the evidence is strong and your application is error-free.
- Your lawyer representing your best interests at all times. During the appeal process, they will help you submit evidence. They will also prepare you for council reviews or administrative hearings.
- Provided continued assistance, should your benefits get cut short.
A lawyer can help you throughout the application and appeals processes. It is difficult to take on the SSA alone. With a lawyer, you can rest easy knowing you have the legal capacity to fight for your benefits.
Contact a Prader-Willi Syndrome Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
Do not lose out on your benefits. To get started with your application or appealing a rejection, Pond Lehocky is here. Contact us for a free consultation.
