Allsup Offers SSDI Resources for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries During Awareness Month
Many people living with spinal cord injuries apply for disability benefits, receive much-needed income and access to assistance with returning to work
Belleville, IL. — Sept. 20, 2018 — September is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month and an important time to increase awareness of the resources available to those living with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), according to TrueHelp, a division of Allsup, the nation’s premier provider of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) representation. Allsup is joining organizations including the United Spinal Association to promote these resources.
Not only do spinal cord injuries pose challenges when it comes to everyday activities, but they can also impact financial security and the ability to work. If an SCI prevents an individual from working in any capacity and is expected to last for at least 12 months or is permanent, he or she may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
“Allsup has helped many individuals with SCI to get the disability benefits they deserve—and need to survive,” said Mike Stein, Allsup assistant vice president. “During this awareness month, and every day, we want people to know there are resources available to them and financial support they can access.”
It’s estimated there are between 250,000 and 350,000 Americans living with SCI. About 17,000 new cases develop each year, according to the United Spinal Association.
“Spinal cord injury may mean the end of one of life’s chapters, but many of our members are writing new chapters with courage, determination and hope,” said Bill Fertig, director, United Spinal Association Resource Center. “There are many resources available to help individuals to foster their internal strength and progress.”
Visit United Spinal’s website for a wealth of resources, including free online publications, peer support and answers to questions.
Although symptoms can vary greatly, many spinal cord injuries are the result of accidents—such as a fall or vehicle collision—rather than a pre-existing disease or condition. In fact, the leading cause of SCI are vehicle crashes. Most of these injuries lead to some loss of function, pain and numbness. These symptoms can be temporary or permanent, and some individuals experience a profound loss of function.
Allsup has helped more than 300,000 people to receive their SSDI benefits. The online tool empower by Allsup® combines an assessment for eligibility and Social Security disability application support, along with return to work guidance for those who may reach medical stability. Allsup has a 50% higher success rate at the application level compared to the national average.
Learn more about eligibility or apply for disability benefits at TrueHelp.com.
ABOUT UNITED SPINAL ASSOCIATION
United Spinal is a national 501(c) (3) nonprofit membership organization formed in 1946 by paralyzed veterans and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), including multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, ALS and post-polio. It played a significant role in writing the Americans with Disabilities Act, and made important contributions to the Fair Housing Amendments Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. Membership is free and is open to all individuals with SCI/D. United Spinal was instrumental in getting New York City to create sidewalk curb ramps and accessible public transportation that has been used as a model for many United States cities.