A former welder from Tremonton, Utah who has applied repeatedly for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits has sought the assistance of local investigative television journalists after receiving multiple letters denying his claim. A detailed article on what the news crew found is available here.
A History of Medical Problems
Randy Thompson said he first started having problems with his back—including a collapsed disc that required surgery—some 17 years ago. He currently states he is unable to stand for more than 10-15 minutes at a time.
Almost ten years ago, Thompson quit his welding job after multiple surgeries—despite still wanting to work. His doctors, however, say he cannot. At one point, the State of Utah itself agreed Thompson could not perform any kind of work. He applied for—and received—Medicaid benefits through the state. Unfortunately, those benefits have now stopped.
An Unlikely Case for Denial
According to Thompson, the State of Utah told him there were no jobs he could do, stating he could not perform any kind of work. Even though his team of doctors has offered evidence that he cannot work, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has ruled that he is not eligible for benefits. According to the news team, a representative from the SSA indicated they denied his claim because they believe he can still do other types of work.
Taking the Next Steps
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits for those who have worked, paid into the system and have encountered a disability that now leaves them unable to work. Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits carry over until the recipient reaches retirement age.
For now, Thompson is scheduled for an additional surgery to fuse his spine, and has requested a hearing with the SSA to appeal his denial. Unfortunately, 60% of new Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims receive an initial denial—and few of those are ever reversed on appeal.
The Emotional Toll
It’s important to understand that trying to obtain SSD benefits can negatively impact not only the claimant, but their families. Struggling to receive benefits has caused Thompson a great deal of financial and emotional stress. He reported that his his marriage is falling apart, he can barely take care of himself and that and he feels lost.
We Can Help
If you are disabled and unable to work, call Disability Attorneys of Michigan for a free confidential consultation. We’ll let you know if we can help you get a monthly check and help you determine if any money or assets you receive could impact your eligibility for disability benefits.
Disability Attorneys of Michigan works hard every day helping the disabled of Michigan seek the Social Security Disability and Veterans Disability benefits they need. If you are unable to work due to a physical, mental or cognitive impairment; call Disability Attorneys of Michigan now for a free consultation at 800-949- 2900.
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