Systemic lupus erythematosus, usually shortened to lupus, is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation and affects the kidneys, nervous system, lungs, or heart. If you were diagnosed with this condition in Wheeling, West Virginia, you likely know the risks. But did you know that if it affects your ability to work, you could qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) lists lupus as a disabling condition. Our Wheeling lupus lawyers can review your case and eligibility for disability benefits. We can file your application and represent you if your claim is denied. It all starts with a free consultation where you can learn how our Wheeling Social Security Disability lawyers can manage the benefits claims or appeals process for you.
What Can You Expect From Working With a Lupus Lawyer in Wheeling, WV?
If you work with the lupus lawyers at Berger and Green, you can expect to have an experienced team on your side. The law firm of Berger and Green has been representing and winning SSD claims for over 40 years. You can expect patient listening and thoughtful responses to your questions and concerns.
In other words, you can expect partners who respect you rather than see you as another SSD case. As evidence of that, our firm doesn’t accept payment unless we recover your benefits. Our focus stays on you.
Our Disability Attorneys Can Handle Many Facets of the SSD Benefits Process
- Filling out an application.
- Filing it.
- Waiting for a decision.
- Appealing a denial.
It consists of a lot of steps with several requirements within each stage.
Our Wheeling lupus lawyers can begin working on your claim for Social Security disability benefits.
- Getting started: We can explain which disability benefits you may be eligible for
- Complete your application: Our firm can prepare your application for benefits.
- Understanding the steps: We prepare you for the path your case could follow, including the appeals process, so that you aren’t caught off guard.
- Proving your case: Our lawyers gather evidence, build a strategy, and represent you at your hearing.
- Heeding your concerns: We are available at any time if you have a question or need help.
40+ years of experience from strong, knowledgeable, compassionate attorneys.
Start A Free EvaluationWhen Does Lupus Qualify You for Social Security Disability?
According to the SSA, the main qualifications for SSD benefits are the following:
- Your lupus prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- Your lupus prevents you from working in a job you used to do or other work that accommodates your condition.
To have a condition SSA considers disabling, it also must last at least a year or result in your death. Given that lupus is a lifelong, chronic condition, you meet this criteria by virtue of getting the diagnosis.
Social Security Disability Insurance for Lupus
With enough work credits, you can receive benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) following your lupus diagnosis. We can review your claim to see if you qualify.
Supplemental Security Income for Lupus
These benefits are for people with lupus who have a lower income and fewer assets. You can qualify for just Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or get it in addition to SSDI. You can provide us with your income and asset information so that we can determine if you meet the requirements for SSI.
We know you’re hurting. We can help. Free case evaluations, home and hospital visits.
Contact Us Now For HelpWhat Does a Wheeling, WV, Lupus Lawyer Do During the Application Process?
Did you know you can consult a lupus lawyer from the very beginning of your Wheeling application? Lawyers aren’t just for appeals but also sources of counsel and clarification through the application process.
Plus, if we’re already acquainted with your claim, we are ready to jump in if issues do arise. We have done just that for others, with one of our past clients saying about a Berger and Green lawyer in their review, “I was just so impressed by the amount of knowledge she knew about my case and about me, it was just overwhelming how much work she put into it.”
We Will Prepare You for Your Case
Some SSD claims receive denials for nonmedical reasons, including technical denials. Technical denials can be the result of errors made on the forms or a failure to provide contact information for you or your doctors. Our Wheeling lupus lawyers can help you with your disability benefits case by ensuring you know about common mistakes and how to avoid them.
We also thoroughly explain Social Security Administration terms that are familiar to us but alien to you. Sometimes, the language just feels impenetrable, creating a barrier to you starting the application and appeals process.
We Will File Your Disability Benefits Claim
We can handle your SSDI and SSI application. You already have enough to do while managing your lupus; let us take this off your plate.
We Will Dissect a Benefits Claim Denial
An estimated 67 percent of SSD applications are initially denied, per the Annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program, 2020. When your SSA denies your claim, you receive a denial letter that includes a reason, such as a technical denial, a medical denial related to proving your lupus, or another reason.
Our disability benefits lawyers can analyze the denial of your application meet the 60 day appeal deadline.
We Will Represent You During the Appeals Process
Just as the application process is several steps, an appeal is also broken down into:
- Reconsideration
- Hearing with Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Review from Appeals Council
- Lawsuit in federal district court
If you receive a denial at Step 1, you can proceed to Step 2, and so on. We represent you at each step, weh know how to appeal the SSA’s decision.
You need an attorney with the experience and dedication to give your case the care it deserves.
Start A Free EvaluationGet Answers About Work, Lupus, and SSD Benefits in Wheeling, WV, Today
Because it’s a chronic disorder, you can apply for SSD benefits right away if you are diagnosed with lupus. Start by contacting Berger and Green’s Wheeling lupus lawyer today for your free consultation.
You don’t have to until your lupus worsens and you’re facing economic hardships. Reach out now.