Your Injury and
Disability Lawyers
Disability Lawyers
Personal Injury, Disability, and Workers’ Compensation
Becoming disabled can be a difficult experience, and the financial strain that follows can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Social Security Disability benefits offer essential support during these difficult times. At Daggett Shuler, our dedicated team of disability attorneys is here to guide you through the process. We are committed to helping you navigate each stage of the claims process to maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you need.
Applying for Social Security Disability can be a complex and intimidating process, but you don't have to go through it alone. Our attorneys are experienced in handling claims and will advocate on your behalf if you've been previously denied. We offer a free initial consultation and only charge fees if we successfully resolve your case.
Opting for a local attorney is vital, as we have in-depth knowledge of Wilkesboro and surrounding areas. Our team, led by a Board-Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability law, is equipped to manage your claim, from gathering the necessary documentation to representing you during legal proceedings.
Adjusting to life with a disability can present numerous challenges, but you don’t have to face them by yourself. Our free consultation means you can get the help you need without worrying about upfront costs. With Daggett Shuler on your side, you’ll have a compassionate advocate working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Choosing a local attorney for your Social Security Disability claim is essential to ensuring the success of your case. Attorneys unfamiliar with local procedures and administrative law judges may face significant obstacles. At Daggett Shuler, we provide a Wilkesboro-based attorney with a wealth of experience who is well-versed in working with North Carolina judges and navigating the nuances of Social Security Disability law.
The Social Security claims process can feel overwhelming. With Daggett Shuler’s trusted disability attorneys in Wilkesboro, you can trust that we are dedicated to securing the benefits you're entitled to. That's our promise to you.
When you choose our legal team, we take full responsibility for managing your Social Security Disability or SSI claim in Wilkesboro. Our services include:
Facing a disability can have profound physical, emotional, and financial impacts. The adjustment to new limitations often leads to significant financial distress. Thankfully, Social Security provides essential assistance during such challenging times.
At Daggett Shuler, our compassionate team of disability attorneys is committed to providing support throughout the disability claim process. We understand the magnitude of these challenges and are prepared to evaluate your situation and offer guidance. To eliminate financial barriers, we provide an initial free consultation to discuss your case and potential strategies.
With Daggett Shuler by your side, you won't have to navigate this difficult journey alone. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid when we win your case and secure the benefits you deserve. Our goal is to relieve your financial pressure so you can focus on rebuilding your life with the support you need.
As of 2024, if you appeal to the hearing stage in North Carolina, you can expect an average wait time of 24 to 28 months. The initial approval rate for SSDI applications in North Carolina is 36.8%, slightly higher than the national average. Approximately 1.3 million North Carolinians, or about 13% of the state’s population, live with a disability. In December 2021, over 9.2 million individuals nationwide received Social Security disability benefits, including disabled workers, widowers, and adult children.
Eligibility for Social Security benefits in Wilkesboro, NC, depends on meeting the Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. These criteria include:
Work Credits: Eligibility depends on your work history, the number of work credits you’ve earned, and your payment of Social Security taxes. The number of credits required varies by age and the benefits you're applying for.
Disability Criteria: To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability. The condition must last for at least 12 months or result in death and must prevent you from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
Non-Medical Eligibility: Beyond the medical criteria, you must have worked recently enough under Social Security to qualify for benefits and must have accumulated enough work credits, which can vary by age.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If your income and resources are limited, you may qualify for SSI based on financial need and disability or blindness.
To apply for Social Security benefits, visit the SSA's website or contact your local Social Security office in Wilkesboro. You'll need to provide documentation related to your medical condition, work history, income, and assets.
If you have questions about eligibility, consulting with a legal professional or disability advocate is a great way to ensure you're properly guided through the process. Our team is here to help.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are designed to assist individuals who are unable to work due to severe and long-lasting medical conditions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a comprehensive guide to qualifying conditions, known as the "Blue Book," which outlines specific health conditions and the criteria required to be eligible for SSDI benefits. For an individual to qualify, their condition must be severe enough that it significantly limits their ability to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. Below are the major categories of qualifying conditions as outlined by the SSA:
These are conditions that affect the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Musculoskeletal disorders can make it difficult or impossible for individuals to perform physical tasks, particularly those requiring mobility or heavy lifting. Some common conditions in this category include:
Arthritis (such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
Osteoporosis
Fibromyalgia
Back injuries, including spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease
This category includes disorders that affect a person's ability to see, hear, or speak. Loss of these critical senses can dramatically impair an individual's ability to engage in everyday activities or work. Qualifying impairments may include:
Blindness or severe visual impairments
Deafness or significant hearing loss
Speech disorders such as severe stuttering or loss of speech ability due to neurological conditions
Conditions that affect the lungs and the respiratory system can limit the ability to breathe properly and perform basic physical activities. Some of the most common respiratory conditions that qualify for SSDI include:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Asthma that cannot be controlled with medication
Pulmonary fibrosis and other lung diseases
Cystic fibrosis
This category includes diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system, which are essential to overall health and function. Conditions that impair the cardiovascular system can result in significant limitations in activity and the ability to work. Some of the most common conditions include:
Heart failure
Coronary artery disease
Congenital heart defects
Arrhythmias and other heart rhythm disorders
Cardiac bypass surgery recovery or complications
Disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and other digestive organs can cause severe pain, malnutrition, and other debilitating effects. Common conditions that may qualify under this category include:
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatitis
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in severe cases
Gastroparesis
Conditions that affect the urinary and reproductive systems can also qualify for SSDI. These disorders may cause chronic pain, infections, or organ failure. Some examples include:
Chronic kidney disease or renal failure
Bladder disorders, such as interstitial cystitis
Chronic pelvic pain disorders
Reproductive system disorders, including endometriosis or severe complications following surgery
Hematological conditions affect the blood and blood-forming tissues, which are critical for overall health. These disorders can impair the body’s ability to carry oxygen, control bleeding, or fight infection. Common qualifying disorders include:
Anemia, particularly severe types such as sickle cell anemia
Hemophilia and other clotting disorders
Leukemia and other cancers of the blood
Lymphoma
Severe skin conditions can significantly impact a person's ability to function in day-to-day life, causing pain, discomfort, and disability. Some examples of qualifying skin disorders include:
Psoriasis or severe eczema
Severe burns or scarring
Chronic dermatitis
Hives or other chronic allergic reactions
The endocrine system regulates hormones that control many critical bodily functions. Disorders of the endocrine glands can have wide-ranging effects on a person’s health and ability to work. Some common conditions in this category include:
Diabetes mellitus (particularly when complications result in other health issues such as neuropathy or kidney failure)
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
Adrenal gland disorders, including Addison’s disease
Congenital disorders are conditions that are present at birth, often due to genetic or environmental factors. These conditions may result in lifelong impairments that qualify for SSDI benefits. Examples include:
Genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or Down syndrome
Chromosomal abnormalities
Birth defects affecting major organs or body systems
Neurological conditions affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. These disorders can significantly impair an individual’s ability to function or work due to mobility, cognition, or coordination issues. Some qualifying neurological conditions include:
Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Parkinson’s disease
Cerebral palsy
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Chronic migraines in severe cases
Mental health conditions can also qualify for SSDI if they severely limit an individual’s ability to function in work or daily activities. These conditions may affect mood, cognition, or behavior. Some qualifying mental health disorders include:
Depression and other mood disorders
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder
Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorder
Autism spectrum disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The SSDI program is designed to assist those with severe health conditions that impair their ability to work and support themselves. The conditions listed above represent a subset of the qualifying categories, and each condition has specific criteria outlined by the SSA. However, it’s important to note that in addition to the medical condition itself, the SSA also considers how the condition impacts the individual’s ability to perform work-related activities. This includes evaluating functional limitations, medical records, and supporting evidence from healthcare providers.
Suppose you have a qualifying condition and believe you are eligible for SSDI. In that case, it's essential to provide thorough documentation and consider legal assistance to help guide you through the application process. With the right support, you can maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.
Wilkesboro, North Carolina, is a charming small town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its rich history, Wilkesboro serves as the county seat of Wilkes County and is renowned for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and Southern hospitality. The town boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with attractions like the Wilkes Heritage Museum and the nearby Yadkin River offering visitors a glimpse into its past. Wilkesboro is also home to the annual MerleFest, a renowned Americana music festival that draws thousands of visitors annually. With its blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and community spirit, Wilkesboro is a welcoming destination for residents and travelers.
Our attorneys have helped clients with legal support through workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, car accident claims, and more. Our clients know that we stand beside them when they are going through a difficult time. Read reviews from real clients, and if you had a positive experience with Daggett Shuler Law, please consider leaving a review.
Contact the attorneys at Daggett Shuler today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can depend on us.
