If you suddenly find yourself injured or disabled, you may wonder how you are going to pay living costs, medical bills, or support a family. In most cases of injury or disability, financial assistance and other forms of help are available. Here are three common types assistance you can receive for disabilities.

Workers’ Compensation

If you are injured on the job, it is best to file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as you experience a job-related injury or illness. If a significant period of time passes between the time of the injury and when you file your claim, insurance companies could be more likely to deny you benefits.

Unfortunately, the reality is that many illnesses and injuries do not show up immediately, especially those arising from routine exposure to an unsafe work environment. If you feel you have wrongfully been denied compensation, consult with a lawyer about your case. The personal injury attorneys at Shook and Stone can help you understand your rights when it comes to workers’ compensation. Their skilled legal team will take on the burden of challenging employers or insurance companies to get the benefits you deserve, allowing you to focus on recovering and returning safely to work.

Veterans Disability

Those who have fought in military service of their country are entitled to federal benefits for any disability that was incurred or worsened as a result of their active service. There are a variety of benefits available to disabled service members including monthly, tax-free monetary compensation, VA housing grants, travel reimbursement, and special offers on life insurance and health insurance. Veterans who have suffered severe injury to organs or loss of extremities may quality for additional financial assistance via Special Monthly Compensation.

It is easy to file a claim for veterans’ benefits online through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. Before beginning the application process, gather relevant documentation such as medical reports and military discharge paperwork. If your claim is unjustly denied, or if the process of working with the VA becomes too overwhelming, local attorneys are happy to help.

Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability (SSD) offers monthly financial compensation for individuals who are unable to work for a year or more due to disability. However, applying for SSD requires a thorough evaluation of your medical condition, work history, and income. When determining eligibility, the Social Security Administration will need documented proof of a disability that prevents you from working enough to earn over a certain amount per month.

Secondly, you must have earned enough work credits to qualify for SSD. Work credits are determined through several factors, including looking at the total duration of time that you have worked, as well as how long you have worked in the past 10 years and whether you contributed into the Social Security program. Complex situations can sometimes arise in determining a worker’s eligibility for SSD, and in such cases, legal assistance may help to get you back on track with obtaining the benefits you need.

It is important not to delay in seeking assistance after suffering an injury or disability. No matter your situation, benefits are likely available to help you and your family.