Missouri Workers Compensation Lawyer

Missouri Social Security Disability Attorney 

Seriously injured workers should also consider applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and possibly disability retirement. These claims require different documentation than workers compensation claims, and the definitions of disability are different than under workers compensation law. A Social Security Disability claim for a young person is generally difficult to support and should be handled by an attorney with experience in both Social Security Disability law and Missouri Workers Compensation law.

There may also be auxiliary Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits available for children and spouses of the injured workers, including Medicare. There is a waiting period before Social Security Disability benefits begin. It is important to begin the application process as soon as possible in order to receive benefits at the earliest opportunity.

How the Social Security Disability Insurance process works

The basic requirement for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility are that you must have worked 20 out of the last 40 quarters; have been unable to work, or expect to be unable to work for at least 12 months; and have suffered a severe medical condition or injury that meets the definition of “disability” under federal law.

On initial review, many injury and illness claims are denied on the basis of this last requirement. At that point, there is 60 days to request a reconsideration hearing where you can attempt to demonstrate why your injuries are serious enough to qualify you for Social Security benefits. A denial of benefits at this stage of the process is also not uncommon. At this point, you should request to have your case heard by an administrative law judge who will examine your injuries and ability to perform your current job.

The judge will also examine unique characteristics such as age, education, skills and your previous employment history to determine whether or not you could adjust to a new form of work. If the judge determines that you cannot, you are entitled to receive benefits on your disability claim.

Free Workers Compensation Consultations for your Social Security Claim

Our lawyer has a strong history of helping injured workers get the medical attention and financial compensation that they need. Contact our St. Louis, Missouri workers compensation law firm to ensure that your rights are protected. Please call (314) 361-4300 or toll free at (888) 872-6795. You can also complete our Online Case Evaluation Form. All communications are returned promptly.