By Stephen H. Olden, Lawyer Referral Service Panelist
This is fairly common. After a heart attack or stroke your medical state may be in flux for many months. After rehab and additional time, heart attack and stroke survivors hopefully will be able to return to work. A claimant’s disability must be projected to last at least 12 months in order to be approved for benefits. As a result, Social Security may take a wait-and-see approach to see if there is a chance you will return to work, which would make you ineligible for benefits.
In these situations, it’s most important to be persistent and make sure your medical records are being updated with Social Security on a regular basis. And remember, if you are denied, you can appeal.