Our Tulsa Social Security disability attorneys often receive questions about eligibility when it comes to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
We would like to inform potential applicants that they might be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits if they suffer from a TBI or head injury.
In order to get benefits with a brain injury, a person must have earned work credits and show that he or she can no longer work. Additionally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may require you to show documentation of your injury, including X-ray reports and/or CAT scans. It may also require neurological and psychological exam documentation to determine eligibility.
People who suffer from TBIs often have serious cognitive defects, problems communicating, uncontrolled seizures, impaired social and motor skills and impaired physical limitations.
It should be noted that last month was Brain Injury Awareness Month, as honored by the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA). The association reports that each year, an estimated 2.4 million children and adults in the U.S. sustain a TBI, and another 795,000 individuals sustain an acquired brain injury (ABI) from non-traumatic causes.
In addition, it is estimated that there are currently more than 5.3 million people in the U.S. living with disabilities because of a TBI. According to the BIAA, many people are able to return to work following a brain injury; however, almost 50 percent are unable to. This is where SSDI comes into play.
The SSA determines if a person should receive benefits or could work based on a residual functional capacity (RFC) form, which notes his or her limitations and impairments. It should also be noted that many people who receive disability benefits are also eligible for other forms of public assistance.
If you suffer from a TBI that leaves you unable to work, we suggest contacting a Tulsa Social Security disability attorney to see if you may be eligible for SSDI benefits. We offer free evaluations of your case, and you may reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability attorneys
