Luis' Story

Nothing could be more frustrating than trying to figure out how the Social Security system works. I'll admit I'm not very patient, but trying to apply for benefits was a real struggle for me. My family came to the US when I was only four years old and we all worked hard together to build a life in this country. It was a proud moment when I became a citizen in 1975 after serving in the military during the Vietnam War. I also got my GED in the military and started my own auto mechanic business once I got out.

The business was good and helped my wife and me raise six kids, and all but one of them went to college. They all have families and good jobs and that makes me real happy. Then four years ago, I was in an accident that crushed both my legs and broke my shoulder.

I thought I would heal up fine, but I ended up having one foot amputated at the ankle and the other leg never got the nerves and muscles back enough to where it could support my full weight for any length of time. I rigged up a rolling stool so I could continue to work at the shop, but then I also developed painful arthritis, which makes it even more difficult for me to get around.

Three years ago, I sold my business to my brother-in-law, thinking that would help me get by for a while. But then one of my daughter’s kids needed expensive treatment for her son who has autism and I couldn’t turn down my family. So you can imagine how worried I was about how I was going to make ends meet since I couldn't work and I was at least 5 years from retirement age.

So off I went to the Social Security office to see about applying for disability benefits. Just waiting in the office nearly wore me out and then I didn’t get any answers, just a bunch of forms to fill out. They told me to mail my stuff in and wait to hear the response. When I had a question about the information I was filling out, I could never get anyone to answer a question. So I just sent it in, knowing it was probably not going to work.

It took me two tries before I saw an ad on TV about hiring a lawyer to help you get social security. At this point, I knew I couldn’t do it myself and no matter what it cost, I was going to do it. Boy, was I happy to hear that I only had to pay an attorney IF he was successful in getting me approved for benefits. To make a long story short, it has really paid off for me.

Working with my attorney, I was able to get declared disabled several months that. Don't be like me and keep waiting thinking you can do it yourself. Save yourself some time and money by hiring an experienced lawyer who knows how to help you get the benefits you are entitled to.

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