Amputations and Disability Benefits
Amputations, whether surgical or accidental, are both physically and mentally traumatic. Not only do you have to learn to accept your amputation, but you must also work hard to adapt to the changes with your body. However, sometimes you may not be able to go back to your normal work and activities. Instead, you may have to file for disability benefits in order to make up for your lost wages.
The Social Security Administration and insurance companies that provide disability benefits recognize long-term disabilities as injuries or illnesses that last for at least a year or eventually lead to death. Of course, as amputations are permanent, they can be categorized as long-term disabilities, or LTDs.
On the other hand, there are still some types of amputation that may not be considered an LTD. For instance, a missing toe or finger may not prevent you from working, or an amputation that is easily fitted with a prosthetic may leave you almost as good as new. Thus, the Social Security Administration, or SSA, only includes specific amputations in its Listing of Impairments, or a catalog of illnesses and injuries that are almost always considered to be disabilities.
According to the SSA's Listing of Impairments, there are some types of amputations that are typically considered disabling, including:
Additionally, it is important to understand the SSA's definition of "effective ambulation." Basically, one must have the ability to walk at a normal pace for a sufficient amount of time. Sometimes, prostheses can help a person master this task. However, if prosthetic devices cannot help you walk, you may be able to earn disability benefits.
If you have been hurt or become ill in a way that prevents you from working, you should consider filing for disability benefits. For help with your case, contact an experienced Indiana long-term disability filing attorney from the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C., today.
The Social Security Administration and insurance companies that provide disability benefits recognize long-term disabilities as injuries or illnesses that last for at least a year or eventually lead to death. Of course, as amputations are permanent, they can be categorized as long-term disabilities, or LTDs.
On the other hand, there are still some types of amputation that may not be considered an LTD. For instance, a missing toe or finger may not prevent you from working, or an amputation that is easily fitted with a prosthetic may leave you almost as good as new. Thus, the Social Security Administration, or SSA, only includes specific amputations in its Listing of Impairments, or a catalog of illnesses and injuries that are almost always considered to be disabilities.
According to the SSA's Listing of Impairments, there are some types of amputations that are typically considered disabling, including:
- Loss of both hands
- Loss of a hand and a lower extremity at or above the ankle, resulting in difficulty walking
- Loss of both lower extremities at or above the ankle that prevents effective ambulation
- Hemipelvectomy
- Hip disarticulation
Additionally, it is important to understand the SSA's definition of "effective ambulation." Basically, one must have the ability to walk at a normal pace for a sufficient amount of time. Sometimes, prostheses can help a person master this task. However, if prosthetic devices cannot help you walk, you may be able to earn disability benefits.
If you have been hurt or become ill in a way that prevents you from working, you should consider filing for disability benefits. For help with your case, contact an experienced Indiana long-term disability filing attorney from the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C., today.
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