If you have had or are facing the possibility of having a liver transplant, it is a strong possibility that you will be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits as a result of this procedure. A Liver Transplant is a condition that qualifies an individual to receive disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s listing manual. Put simply, a person who receives a liver transplant will automatically be presumed to be disabled for a period of 1 year following the operation, and will receive disability benefits. After the year is up, you still may be eligible to receive your benefits, but the Social Security Administration will need to reevaluate your disability claim. The Social Security Administration will look to see if you have any continuing medical issues that effect your ability to work, and they do this by examining any complications from your transplant, any rejection episodes, and the adequacy of your liver function following surgery. For more information, see Social Security Listing 5.09 and 5.00(D)(12). These can be accessed online here: http://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/5.00-Digestive-Adult.htm#5_09.
Although a Liver Transplant typically qualifies a person to receive benefits, it is still a good idea to consult with an attorney about your case. The reality is that a majority of first-time applications for disability benefits are denied, and this could be a result of an error in paperwork or forms that go along with a claim for benefits. Many applicants denied their first time could have saved themselves a great deal of annoyance by consulting with an attorney at the beginning of their claim.
