Get Approved for Social Security Disability Benefits
If you are a Louisiana resident who is suffering from a medical condition that is preventing you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. E. Orum Young Law is here to help you learn about the most common medical conditions that qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in Louisiana. Our Monroe social security disability attorney can provide a free case review to determine if you are eligible. We understand the complexities of the Social Security Disability system and can help you navigate the process.
What is the Legal Definition of Disability?
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), disability is defined as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. This definition is outlined in the SSA’s Blue Book, which is a manual that lists impairments and the criteria for determining disability.
What Kind of Social Security Disability Benefits are Available to Louisiana Citizens?
Louisiana citizens may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits under the Social Security Act. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two disability programs: Title II (Disability Insurance Benefits) and Title XVI (Supplemental Security Income-SSI).
- Title II (Disability Insurance Benefits) provides Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) to individuals who have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. To qualify for these benefits, an individual must have a severe medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death and must be unable to perform any substantial gainful activity.
- Title XVI (Supplemental Security Income-SSI) provides Supplemental Security Income benefits (SSI) to individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged and have limited income and resources. To qualify for these benefits, an individual must have a severe medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death and must be unable to perform any substantial gainful activity.
The Disability Determination Services (DDS) is the state agency in Louisiana responsible for making the initial determination of disability for both Title II and Title XVI claims. The DDS will review the claimant’s medical records, work history, and other relevant information to determine if the claimant meets the criteria for disability benefits.
How Do I Know if I Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
In order to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the criteria set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA has a “blue book” that outlines the criteria for disability benefits.
Generally, you must be unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. To do this, you must provide medical evidence of your disability. This can include medical records, lab results, and doctor’s notes.
If you are denied benefits, you may want to consider hiring an experienced Monroe social security disability attorney from E. Orum Young Law. An attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
How Does SSA Define “Medically Determinable Impairment”?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a medically determinable impairment as “an impairment that results from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities which can be shown by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques.”
In order to determine if an individual has a medically determinable impairment, the SSA requires evidence from an acceptable medical source such as a doctor, psychologist, or other qualified medical professionals. This evidence must include medical signs, laboratory findings, and/or symptoms that are consistent with the individual’s diagnosis.
What are the Benefits of Hiring a Social Security Disability Attorney in Louisiana?
Hiring a social security disability attorney in Louisiana can be a great way to ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. The E. Orum Young Law Firm has been helping individuals with their social security disability claims for over 30 years. Here are some of the benefits of hiring a social security disability attorney from the E. Orum Young Law Firm:
- Knowledge and Experience: The attorneys at E. Orum Young Law have extensive knowledge and experience in social security disability law, which can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim.
- Representation: An attorney from E. Orum Young Law can represent you throughout the entire process, from filing your initial claim to appealing a denied claim.
- Guidance: An attorney from E. Orum Young Law can provide you with guidance and advice on how to best present your case and maximize your chances of receiving benefits.
- Support: An attorney from E. Orum Young Law can provide you with emotional support and help you understand your rights and options throughout the process.
What are Common Medical Conditions that Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits in Louisiana?
The Social Security Administration’s Blue Book is a listing of medical conditions that can qualify an individual for Social Security Disability benefits. The following are the top 10 most common medical conditions that qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in Louisiana.
- Musculoskeletal System Disorders
- Cardiovascular System Disorders
- Respiratory System Disorders
- Mental Disorders
- Digestive System Disorders
- Endocrine System Disorders
- Genitourinary System Disorders
- Hematological System Disorders
- Skin Disorders
- Neurological Disorders
Musculoskeletal System Disorders
Musculoskeletal System Disorders are a group of medical conditions that affect the muscles, bones, and joints. These conditions can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a list of common medical conditions that qualify for social security disability benefits in the Blue Book. This list includes Musculoskeletal System Disorders such as
- arthritis,
- carpal tunnel syndrome,
- scoliosis,
- osteoporosis,
- spine disorders,
- fibromyalgia,
- ruptured discs, and
- degenerative disc disease.
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits due to a Musculoskeletal System Disorder, an individual must meet all of the criteria outlined in the Blue Book and provide sufficient medical evidence to support their claim.
In Louisiana, individuals who are seeking Social Security Disability benefits due to an MSD may benefit from consulting with an experienced attorney at E. Orum Young Law Firm. Our attorneys have extensive experience helping individuals with MSDs navigate the Social Security Disability application process and can help ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted promptly. We understand the complexities of the Social Security Disability system and can guide the entire process.
Cardiovascular System Disorders
Cardiovascular System Disorders are any disorder that affects the proper functioning of the heart or blood vessels. These disorders can include but are not limited to:
- coronary artery disease,
- congestive heart failure,
- chronic venous insufficiency,
- ischemic heart disease,
- recurrent arrhythmia,
- symptomatic congenital heart disease,
- peripheral artery disease (PAD),
- aneurysm of the aorta or major branches, and
- valvular heart disease.
If you or a loved one is suffering from a cardiovascular system disorder and need help with your Social Security Disability claim, contact E. Orum Young Law, Monroe Social Security Disability Attorney for a free case review.
Respiratory System Disorders
Respiratory System Disorders are defined in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Bluebook as any disorder that significantly limits the ability to breathe, including:
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
- asthma,
- bronchiectasis,
- cystic fibrosis, and
- other chronic respiratory disorders.
Our Monroe Social Security Disability attorney has been providing successful representation to clients for decades in order to get them the benefits they deserve. Contact us today to arrange a free case review with our Monroe Social Security disability lawyer.
Mental Disorders
Mental disorders are conditions that affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, and behavior. They may be occasional or long-lasting (chronic) and can affect someone’s ability to relate to others and function each day. Types of mental disorders covered by the Social Security Administration include:
- anxiety disorders,
- bipolar disorder,
- major depressive disorder,
- depression related to mental illness,
- schizophrenia,
- seasonal affective disorder (SAD),
- premenstrual dysphoric disorder,
- cyclothymic disorder, and
- autism spectrum disorder.
- Orum Young Law helps individuals with mental disorders obtain the Social Security Disability benefits they need.
Digestive System Disorders
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Digestive System Disorders as any disorder that affects the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. These disorders can include:
- Crohn’s disease,
- ulcerative colitis,
- irritable bowel syndrome,
- chronic liver disease,
- cirrhosis,
- gastrointestinal hemorrhaging,
- colitis, diverticulitis,
- GERD,
- ulcers, and
- other digestive system disorders.
To ensure that your claim is evaluated correctly and that you receive the benefits you deserve, it is important to seek the help of an experienced Monroe social security disability attorney like E. Orum Young Law.
Endocrine System Disorders
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Endocrine System Disorders as any medical condition that affects the body’s endocrine system, which is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
Endocrine System Disorders can include:
- diabetes,
- thyroid disorders,
- hyperglycemia,
- hypoglycemia,
- pancreatitis,
- obesity, and
- adrenal gland disorders such as:
- Addison’s disease,
- Cushing’s syndrome, and
- congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
If you or a loved one has an Endocrine System Disorder and needs Social Security Disability benefits, consult our Monroe Social Security Disability attorney at E. Orum Young Law. Our attorneys can explain your rights and help you file for disability benefits.
Genitourinary System Disorders
Genitourinary System Disorders are any disorder that affects the organs of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. These disorders can include:
- infections,
- kidney stones,
- bladder cancer,
- chronic glomerulonephritis,
- end-stage renal disease,
- chronic glomerulonephritis,
- hypertensive renal vascular disease,
- hereditary nephropathies,
- diabetic nephropathy, and
- other conditions.
Hematological System Disorders
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Hematological System Disorders as any disorder that affects the production, function, or structure of the blood cells, including:
- aplastic anemia,
- chronic anemia,
- chronic granulocytopenia,
- sickle cell disease,
- myelofibrosis,
- coagulation defects and hemophilia,
- chronic granulocytopenia,
- chronic thrombocytopenia,
- hereditary telangiectasia,
- polycythemia vera,
- leukemias,
- lymphomas, and
- other disorders of the blood-forming organs.
These disorders can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of infection.
Skin Disorders
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines skin disorders as any medical condition that affects the skin, including diseases, infections, and other conditions. Examples of skin disorders that the SSA covers include:
- psoriasis,
- eczema,
- dermatitis,
- vitiligo,
- alopecia areata,
- chronic skin infections or mucous membrane disorders,
- genetic photosensitivity disorders,
- hidradenitis suppurativa,
- burns, and
- skin cancer.
Neurological Disorders
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines neurological disorders as any disorder that affects the structure or function of the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves. Examples of neurological disorders covered by the SSA include:
- Alzheimer’s disease,
- Parkinson’s disease,
- multiple sclerosis,
- cerebral palsy,
- epilepsy,
- muscular dystrophy,
- Huntington’s disease,
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is popularly known as Lou Gehrig’s illness,
- peripheral neuropathies,
- brain tumors,
- stroke, and
- other degenerative diseases.
What are the Risks and Disadvantages of DIY Processing of Social Security Disability Claims?
- Lack of Knowledge: One of the biggest risks and disadvantages of DIY processing of social security disability claims is the lack of knowledge and understanding of the process. Without a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations, it can be difficult to accurately complete the paperwork and submit a successful claim.
- Time-Consuming: DIY processing of social security disability claims can be very time-consuming. It can take weeks or even months to complete all the necessary paperwork and submit a claim. This can be especially difficult for those who are already dealing with a disability and may not have the time or energy to devote to the process.
- Denial: Another risk and disadvantage of DIY processing of social security disability claims are that there is no guarantee that the claim will be approved. Even if all the paperwork is completed correctly, there is still a chance that the claim will be denied due to a lack of evidence or other factors.
- Stressful: The process of filing for social security disability can be very stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process or have difficulty understanding the paperwork. This can lead to further delays in processing your claim and add to your stress.
Monroe Social Security Disability Attorney
If you or a loved one is suffering from a common medical condition that qualifies for Social Security Disability benefits in Louisiana, the E. Orum Young Law is here to help. Our Monroe social security disability attorney has extensive experience in helping individuals receive the benefits they deserve. We offer a free case review to determine if you are eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
In recognition of his contributions to the legal community, the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) established the E. Orum Young Mock Trial Courtroom and Amphitheater. This honor is a testament to the dedication and commitment of E. Orum Young to helping those in need. Contact us today for your initial free case review, and let us help you get the Social Security Disability benefits you deserve.
