Filling out a claim for for social security disability

Case Spotlight – May 2023

Disability Law Group recently helped a young claimant restore her disability benefits after being denied for 5 years! The claimant, a disabled mother, was previously receiving disability benefits until being cut-off in 2017. Even for individuals already receiving benefits, the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) will sometimes complete periodic disability reviews – called continuing disability benefits review – to ensure continuing disability. In cases where the SSA ceases benefits, they must make a finding that the individual’s medical condition has significantly improved since the last decision was made in their case.

In this case, the claimant underwent several appeals following the cessation decision before she finally reached out to Disability Law Group. Our lawyers fought hard to show that the claimant’s condition had not improved and that she should therefore continue to qualify for disability benefits. We were successful! This win not only resulted in over 5 years of benefits being awarded, but restored her insurance and reduced her worry. As a single mom who had suffered extreme financial hardship in the years she was cut-off of disability benefits, this win was truly life-changing.

While there is no way to control whether the SSA will review your case for continuing disability, there are ways to successfully survive a review. Here are some tips:

  • MEDICAL TREATMENT: Be sure to continue seeking treatment and to continue to inform your doctors of your symptoms, medication side effects, and the impact of your symptoms on your activities of daily living.
  • COMMUNICATE WITH SSA: Check your mail for communication from SSA and be sure to read correspondence and respond in a timely fashion as benefits may sometimes be ceased for lack of response.
  • SEEK THE ASSISTANCE OF AN ATTORNEY: If the SSA has decided to cease payment of benefits, Disability Law Group may be able to help! Please reach out to us at (248) 838-3000.

If you or a loved one need help with securing disability payments, contact the experts at Disability Law Group. We have the knowledge, tools, and experience needed to make sure that you receive the benefits that you deserve.

Author: Erika A. Riggs

Attorney Erika A. Riggs, a partner at Disability Law Group, is a renowned legal advocate and community leader. A graduate of Wayne State University Law School, Erika co-founded The 313 Project, a non-profit providing scholarships and pro-bono legal advice for at-risk youth. She actively contributes to community well-being as a board member and community activist, spearheading pro bono events and volunteer initiatives. Erika specializes in Social Security Disability and Veterans’ disability benefits. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Erika has received accolades such as the ‘Oakland Together 40 Under 40’ Class of 2023, 2022 ABA On the Rise Top 40 Young Lawyer award, eight consecutive Avvo’s Client Choice awards, and the esteemed 2023 Rising Star award for the sixth consecutive year by Super Lawyers (extended to less than 2.5% of attorneys practicing in Michigan). Her multifaceted achievements showcase her commitment to excellence, community service, and advocacy for those in need.