Elk Grove Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys

Elk Grove Lawyers for Social Security Disability Applications and Appeals

People who have experienced disabilities that inhibit their ability to work may be concerned about their ability to provide for themselves and their families. With no income coming in, a person or family may struggle to pay everyday expenses, not to mention the significant medical expenses related to a serious illness, a disabling injury, or a chronic health condition. While Social Security disability benefits can provide much-needed assistance in these situations, the process of applying for these benefits can be daunting, and if a disability claim is denied by Social Security, a person may be unsure about their options.

At Grauer & Kriegel, LLC, our attorneys provide guidance for Social Security disability applicants, ensuring that they submit the required information when making claims and provide the necessary evidence to show that they are disabled. We can address the denial of benefits, ensuring that a person takes the proper steps to appeal these decisions. We can provide effective representation in administrative hearings and other legal proceedings, advocating for an applicant’s interests and ensuring that they will be treated fairly.

Categories of Disabling Conditions

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate a disability claim to determine whether an applicant’s condition is a disability that prevents them from earning sufficient income. When reviewing these cases, the SSA categorizes disabilities into several major groups, and it maintains listings of different conditions and the criteria that will allow a person to qualify for disability benefits. Some of these categories include:

Musculoskeletal System Disorders

These disorders include conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles, which can severely limit a person’s physical functions. Examples include spinal disorders, pathologic fractures that occur because of conditions such as osteoporosis, soft tissue injuries that require ongoing surgical intervention, and amputations where prosthetics cannot restore effective movement. The SSA may evaluate these conditions based on the extent they have limited a person’s movements, the effectiveness of treatments like surgery, and the person’s ability to perform routine activities.

Cardiovascular Conditions

This category covers disorders related to the heart and circulatory system, including chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, and congenital heart defects. Qualification criteria include documented symptoms like chest pain, limitations in physical exertion, and heart function test results.

Neurological Disorders

These disorders may include a range of conditions affecting the nervous system. Examples include multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. The criteria for evaluating these conditions focus on the severity and frequency of symptoms, such as coordination difficulties, paralysis, or the frequency and impact of seizures.

Respiratory Disorders

Conditions that affect the lungs, airways, and respiratory system may include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis. These disorders are assessed based on their impact on a person’s breathing, their dependence on oxygen therapy, and the frequency and severity of respiratory failures.

Digestive Disorders

This category includes conditions like Crohn's disease, liver disease, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Criteria for evaluating these disorders will usually focus on the severity of symptoms, nutritional complications, and how they have affected a person’s weight and strength.

Immune System Disorders

These disorders include conditions like HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. They may be evaluated based on symptoms, treatment responses, and complications that limit a person’s daily functioning.

Cancer

Various forms of cancer are evaluated based on the type, stage, location, and response to treatment. The SSA considers the impact of the cancer itself along with the effects of treatment like chemotherapy and radiation.

Mental Disorders

Mental health issues can be just as debilitating as physical illnesses. Conditions like schizophrenia, severe depression, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities may be evaluated based on a person’s ability to function in a work setting, their social interaction capabilities, and their ability to perform daily activities.

Contact Our Elk Grove Social Security Disability Lawyers

At Grauer & Kriegel, LLC, we can help determine eligibility for disability benefits based on a person’s physical or mental condition, and we can ensure that the proper documentation is provided to show that an applicant meets the criteria for disability. We are dedicated to supporting our clients throughout every stage Social Security disability claims process. To learn how we can address legal issues related to Social Security disability benefits, contact us at 847-240-9010 and set up a free consultation.