At Disability Law Group, we take great pride in fighting for veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. One of our recent success stories involves a 58-year-old veteran from Troy, Michigan, who finally won his Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits after being denied repeatedly. Partners Randall Mansour and Erika Riggs worked tirelessly on his behalf, securing a life-changing victory that has not only improved his financial stability, resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in backpay benefits and increased monthly compensation, but also his healthcare options.
A Long Road to Victory
This veteran, who served bravely in Afghanistan, had applied for disability benefits on his own over a decade ago. Unfortunately, like many veterans who navigate the complex and often frustrating disability process without legal representation, he was denied. After years of struggling, he discovered Disability Law Group through a legal directory that highlighted our awards, client success stories, and extensive community involvement. Realizing he needed expert help, he reached out to us.
Randall Mansour and Erika Riggs took on his case with determination, knowing that this veteran had been wronged. His application had been denied in 2022, but our team was not deterred. Erika Riggs represented him at his disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where she meticulously presented the case. The arguments Erika raised were so compelling that the judge awarded benefits without requiring a full hearing—a rare and significant outcome.
Beyond the Win: The Impact of SSD Benefits
One of the most gratifying aspects of this case was the difference the SSD benefits have made in our client’s life. Since receiving his award, he is now eligible for Medicare, a welcome change after years of dissatisfaction with the healthcare he received through the VA. Medicare has provided him with better access to the care he needs, which has been a tremendous relief.
The veteran has been so pleased with the outcome and the respect he received from Disability Law Group that he has referred many others to our firm. His referrals include not only his “brothers in arms”—fellow veterans who have served alongside him—but also other members of the Troy community. This ripple effect of trust and gratitude is the ultimate testament to the impact we strive to make with every case we take on.
Understanding SSD and VA Disability Benefits for Veterans
Many veterans are unaware that they can qualify for both SSD and VA service-connected disability benefits without any offset. This misunderstanding often prevents them from seeking the full benefits they are entitled to. It’s crucial for veterans to know that these benefits are separate and can be received concurrently. SSD benefits are based on an individual’s inability to work due to a disability, while VA service-connected disability benefits are awarded based on disabilities that are directly related to military service.
In this client’s case, his severe disabilities stemmed from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) he sustained during his service in Afghanistan. A rocket blaster exploded just 10 feet away from him, causing significant and lasting damage. As a result, he suffers from memory loss, hearing loss, migraines, and aphasia—a condition that affects his ability to communicate. These impairments severely limit his ability to work and maintain a normal daily life, making him fully deserving of both SSD and VA benefits.
The Role of Legal Representation in Winning Benefits
This case highlights the critical role that expert legal representation plays in securing the benefits that veterans and other disabled individuals deserve. Our client had been denied benefits for years because he initially tried to navigate the process alone. It wasn’t until he sought the help of Disability Law Group that his case was fully understood and properly presented. In fact, SSA failed to obtain and consider critical records from our client’s treating Neurologist before coming to us. We not only made sure all records were requested, but also made part of the file, in addition to drafting special forms to help our clients cases.
Veterans like this client often face complex and daunting legal hurdles when applying for disability benefits. Without the knowledge and experience of a skilled attorney, they may miss out on the compensation they are owed. At Disability Law Group, we understand the intricacies of both SSD and VA claims, and we fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the maximum benefits available.
Conclusion
This veteran’s victory is a reminder of the importance of persistence, expertise, and advocacy. His successful claim has not only provided him with the financial support he needs but has also connected him with better healthcare through Medicare. His story is one of many that demonstrate the life-changing impact of winning disability benefits, and we are honored to have played a part in his journey.
If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with disability claims, whether for SSD, VA benefits, or both, Disability Law Group is here to help. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those who have served our country, ensuring they receive the full benefits they have earned.
