Qualifying for SSD with Amputations

A traumatic amputation is the loss of a body part—usually a finger, toe, arm, or leg—that occurs as the result of an accident or trauma. An amputation is considered a disabling condition by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and may qualify you for SSD benefits.

Regardless of the condition, all are subject to evaluation and must meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. One of our attorneys could help you file for SSD benefits based on an amputation and assist you with any necessary appeals.

Traumatic Amputations and SSD Benefits

An amputation affects the musculoskeletal system, so it is classified with other conditions that can result from infectious, inflammatory, or degenerative processes, traumatic or developmental events, or neoplastic, vascular, or toxic/metabolic diseases.

Amputations are classified into four categories by the SSA based on the type of limb lost and the degree of severity of the injury:

• Both hands
• One or both lower extremities at or above the tarsal region (the ankle bones), with stump complications resulting in medical inability to use a prosthetic device to ambulate effectively
• One hand and one lower extremity at or above the tarsal region, with inability to ambulate effectively
• Hemipelvectomy (a high level pelvic amputation) or hip disarticulation (the loss of three joints—the hip, knee, and ankle)

Retain Professional Legal Representation when Qualifying for SSD with Amputations

Although qualifying for SSD benefits with an amputation should be a straightforward process, it’s not always easy, and many valid claims are denied. At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we know how the SSD system works, and we can build you a strong claim that will maximize your chances of receiving benefits.

Get in touch with our Social Security Disability lawyers today.