Social Security Benefits & CTE
What is CTE?
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy - a progressive degenerative disease affecting people who have suffered repeated concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Commonly seen in athletes and others who have been exposed to concussions and repetitive head impacts.
How does CTE or a TBI impact my ability to work?
Most common symptoms of a TBI (which can lead to CTE) are:
Memory Loss
Confusion
Migraine Headache
Dizziness or Other Sensory Issues
Seizures
Speech Difficulties
Trouble Sleeping
Mood Changes or Extreme Mood Swings
How do I receive disability assistance when suffering from CTE or a TBI?
In order to apply for disability regarding CTE or a TBI (traumatic brain injury) of any kind, you will want to ensure that you have the proper medical documentation on file. A disability lawyer will be extremely helpful in this scenario as they can assess the strength of your claim from the start, advise as to appropriate medical evidence of your impairment, and even help with the appeal process if that becomes necessary.
How do I apply for disability when suffering from a TBI or CTE?
1. Meet income and working hours requirements
Meet the income requirements for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) programs, as well as previously worked and accumulated enough work credits to meet qualification criteria
2. Determine severity of injury
Determine the severity of your injury and if it meets the criteria to align with a disability claim - disability lawyer is a great advisor to help you proceed through this step and steps to come.
3. Blue book manual alignment
SSA will check your medical documents and see if the symptoms align with its blue book manual of disability conditions. This might mean automatic approval for disability compensation without needing to go through the rest of the stages.
4. Evaluation of current work ability
SSA will evaluate if you have the ability to complete the line of work you used to participate in as well as functional capacity for work related tasks.
5. Evaluation regarding alternative lines of work
SSA will determine if you have transferable skills that could be used in another line of work that would allow gainful employment.
Visit https://benefits.com/social-security-disability/brain-injury-disability/ for further information on applying.