Social Security Disability Benefits for HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS

Social Security Disability Benefits for HIV/AIDS

Filing for SSDI with HIV/AIDS – Contact Grundy Disability Group

Social Security Disability Benefits For Those Living With HIV/AIDSHIV and AIDS are both serious medical conditions. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, and it compromises the body’s immune system, leaving it vulnerable to infection and illnesses. AIDS is the late stage of the HIV viral infection, when the immune system has become severely compromised and therefore, the individual is at an increased risk for contracting illnesses. Additionally, when a person with HIV and/or AIDS gets sick, they are more susceptible to complications.

There have been significant improvements in medication regimens for individuals affected by HIV and AIDS. However, due to this, the assessment for disability benefits for HIV patients has also changed. There appears to be an overall improvement in the severity of the disease in people affected by the virus, but co-infections still exist, leading to both minor and serious complications and symptoms. Judges and Social Security staff often pay more attention to a history of improving lab values rather than a history of opportunistic infections and actual functional difficulties.

Many individuals who have HIV, and AIDS, also contract Hepatitis C. This increases the risk for developing further infections, and many people in the medical community view this comorbidity as a third disease. Treatment for Hepatitis C can create side-effects that are disabling, and the disease itself often causes debilitating symptoms. Filing a disability claim for Hepatitis C (HCV) alone, or in combination with HIV/AIDS, requires extensive legal experience, and knowledge of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) application processes.

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When filing for disability benefits with Hepatitis C, a claimant would file under section 5.00 in the Blue Book, which is the section dedicated to digestive system disorders and impairments. Filing a claim for HIV/AIDS is done under section 14.00, which covers immune system disorders.

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) with Hepatitis C or HIV/AIDS can be done if you suffer from symptoms of the disease(s), or side effects of treatment, that leave you unable to work and earn a living wage. Many Hepatitis C or HIV claims are filed solely on the evidence that a person is suffering from severe fatigue.

Despite debilitating side effects and symptoms of these diseases, many claims are unfortunately denied due to the Social Security Administration not considering cases to be “severe” enough to limit a person’s ability to work. Gathering substantial evidence is essential to applying for SSDI with HIV/AIDS and/or Hepatitis C. This evidence should include a variety of information, including a physician’s assessment of the claimant’s level of function, and any supporting medical records.

Additionally, the question of returning to work is complicated, and involves a consideration of various types of benefits that are made available to claimants– including medical insurance, any subsidized housing, co-payment programs, and the availability of continued Social Security benefits through the Social Security Administration’s work-incentive programs.

People with HIV may not be physically able to take part in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), and the key to receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is proving that living with an HIV infection, and/or Hepatitis C, is debilitating enough to affect your ability to earn a living wage, and other areas of your life.

Reach Out to Grundy Disability Group Today

If you are HIV positive, and trying to apply for SSDI in or near Liberty, Missouri, contact our qualified legal team at Grundy Disability Group today before filing. When it comes to the complicated processes that come with filing a claim under an HIV, AIDS, and/or Hepatitis C infection, we are the lawyers you need to get the best chances at obtaining disability benefits. Contact us today at (816) 415-4560 to request a free case evaluation.

Further Resources:

AIDS.gov – Site has a service locator, blog and the latest research information.

AIDS.org – Non-profit’s mission to help prevent HIV infections and improve the lives of those affected by HIV and AIDS

 

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I cannot say enough
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I contacted his office October 2020, because I had and still am, fighting breast cancer. I had numerous surgeries, still doing chemo, finished radiation and still fighting the fight. They took care of everything and that was such a blessing because I was too sick and weak to do it myself. I would absolutely recommend them and I am so grateful that a friend referred them to me. They were always polite and punctual returning my calls and emails. Don’t go it alone, let them take care of it, reserve your strength to fight for your health.”

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I want to take a moment to say I appreciate all you do for clients (me) throughout the SSD process. You provided me top-shelf representation, case knowledge and follow up. Thank you!”

— A.S. Leawood, KS

A friend referred
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He was amazing!

I felt the weight lift off my shoulders. He was caring and efficient and took over the whole process. He handled all correspondence and was my voice in my hearing. I was ecstatic when Matt got my disability approved. I wish I had started with Matt before I ever filed.”

— W.T. Kansas City

After being denied trying to file on my own
I was fortunate to have Grundy Disability Group
recommended to me.

A short survey and a visit then they took control of my case. This was the best decision I’ve ever made. Matt answered all my questions without hesitation and gave me confidence about my case. I’ve already recommended them to others and will do so gladly. Thank you Matt and his team!”

— W.S. Kansas City

I had a great experience
working with this office.

They are thorough, and get the job done with the least amount of stress on the client as possible. I would recommend them to anyone I know who needs help navigating their SSDI claim. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

— W.W. Kansas City

I’m epileptic and you recently
just helped me get disability.

I just wanted to email you guys and say thank you guys so much! I appreciate your hard work and dedication.! you guys have helped me get my income back since I haven’t been able to work. Now I can pay my bills again and get caught up again that is a relief. thank you guys again so much god bless you and all your families.”

— A.D. Kansas City

Thanks again for
your help on all this.

From the first conversation I had with Susan Frank, whose advice set me on a course to lay the groundwork of a successful claim – months before I hired you. I spoke to a couple of other places before I spoke to her and there was no comparison. The difference between my initial contact with Susan VS the others was a personal connection and actual value in the phone call. It was informative, connected and extremely helpful. This built trust and made my decision to choose your organization easy. My ongoing dealings with you only confirmed my choice. Matt is extremely connected with his clients and communicates promptly and thoughtfully.”

— T.C. Kansas City

To the Law Office of Matthew R. Grundy

I, Delisa Cadenhead, would like to extend my appreciation for the dedicated work I received from your firm. Thank you for standing by me and my case. I hope you and your firm have many blessings. Thank you very much!”

— Delisa Cadenhead

Matt, Regina, Nina, and everyone else that helped work on my disability case:

You were ALL an awesome, cohesive, genuine TEAM and I appreciate all your help!”

— Shannon D. Bonner Springs, KS

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    When do I apply for Social Security disability?

    Our Social Security disability lawyer in charge of your case will work tirelessly to determine what went wrong. Our Social Security attorneys will then refile your claim, making sure everything is in order. Our Social Security lawyers will not stop until you are successful in claiming the benefits you deserve. Read More

    You have to have been disabled, or expect to be disabled, for at least one year to be eligible. So, if you expect to be out of work for one year or more on account of illness or injury, you should file for Social Security disability benefits. Read More

    To apply for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report. You can also print the Disability Report, complete it and return it to your local Social Security office. Read More

    Cases are generally handled on a contingency basis. That means the representative receives a fee only if you win your case. Normally the fee is 25% of your back benefits and must be approved by Social Security. Read More

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