If you or a loved one with a significant underlying medical condition has contracted COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, and you have or possibly may be out of work for at least a 12-month period due to your symptoms, you may want to consider applying for Social Security disability—especially if you are over 50. The benefits can greatly help you and your family get through the period you are out of work, especially as the economy suffers during this global pandemic. Our Philadelphia Social Security disability lawyers explain the benefits of filing a claim.
Social Security Disability Benefits
Under the Social Security Administration (SSA), you are eligible to receive benefits if you have a total disability—this means partial or short-term disabilities are ineligible. The SSA’s definition of a disability is based on how your injury or condition affects your ability to work and provide for yourself and your family financially. Major medical disabilities are generally defined as illnesses, injuries, and conditions which will not heal in 12 months or are expected to result in the patient’s death.
Examples of such disabilities include:
- Blood disorders
- Cancer
- Kidney failure
- Lupus
- Mental disorders
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Neurological conditions
COVID-19 doesn’t seriously affect most people who get it, but for individuals already suffering from conditions such as those listed above, the disease can be life-threatening. The medical bills for fighting COVID-19, as well as the condition already present, can add up significantly. Therefore, applying for benefits may be your only way to pay your medical bills.
Though SSA offices are currently closed to prevent further spread of the coronavirus, their services remain available online. By submitting an application online or over the phone, you could be entitled to up to $2700 a month plus medical coverage.
Don’t delay as every month you wait could cost you thousands of dollars in benefits you could have received. Contact the SSA now if you or a loved one with a disabling medical condition has been diagnosed with the coronavirus.
Appealing a Denied Claim
If you filed a Social Security disability claim that was recently denied don’t give up—you only have 60 days to appeal or you will have to start the process all over again.
At Shipon Law Associates, P.C., our skilled attorneys can help assist you with your denied claim appeal at no upfront cost to you. If we win your appeal, our fee is paid out of the retroactive benefits, so you don’t ever have to pay us out of your own pocket.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about Social Security benefits or would like to appeal a denied claim. Our Philadelphia Social Security disability lawyers remain available for online and phone consultations. Contact us today!