A partial amputation can change every aspect of your daily life—from your mobility to your ability to perform the job you once relied on. Whether you lost part of a hand, foot, arm, or leg, you may still face serious functional limitations that make full-time employment impossible. If your injury prevents you from working and your income is limited, PLBH can help you file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and build a strong case for benefits.
Understanding SSI Eligibility After Amputation
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is designed to help individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI does not require a prior work history—making it a crucial safety net for those who may not qualify for SSDI.
To receive SSI benefits, you must:
- Have a medically documented disability (such as a partial amputation)
- Be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to the condition
- Have limited income and assets below the SSI threshold
Even if your amputation was only partial, you may still qualify if it severely limits your movement, dexterity, or ability to perform your previous job tasks.
How the SSA Evaluates Amputations
The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews amputation claims under Listing 1.20, which covers disorders of the skeletal spine and extremities, including limb loss.
You may qualify automatically if you have:
- Amputation of both hands, or
- Amputation of one or both lower limbs at or above the ankle, and
- Difficulty walking effectively, even with a prosthetic device
However, many partial amputations don’t meet this strict listing. In that case, you must prove that your limitations still prevent you from sustaining any type of full-time employment.
Proving That a Partial Amputation Prevents You from Working
Even if you can walk or perform limited tasks, you may still be unable to do the kind of work you’ve done before—especially in physically demanding jobs.
You may qualify for SSI if you experience:
- Chronic pain or sensitivity at the amputation site
- Poor prosthetic fit or frequent irritation
- Difficulty standing, walking, or lifting for extended periods
- Limited dexterity or grip strength in your remaining limb
- Risk of infection or ongoing medical complications
PLBH can work with your doctors to gather detailed medical evidence and explain how your specific limitations affect your ability to work.
Key Evidence to Support Your SSI Claim
The SSA relies heavily on medical and functional documentation.
Important records include:
- Surgical and hospital reports
- Prosthetic evaluations and fitting notes
- Physical therapy records
- Doctor statements outlining permanent restrictions
- X-rays, imaging, or wound care documentation
- Daily activity reports describing how the injury impacts routine tasks
In addition, personal statements and testimonies from family or coworkers can help illustrate your limitations.
Steps to File for SSI
- Gather medical and financial documentation. Include proof of income, assets, and medical treatment history.
- Complete the SSI application. Be specific about how your amputation affects your ability to perform work-related tasks.
- Submit your claim. This can be done online, by phone, or at a local SSA office.
- Consult PLBH. Our team can ensure your claim is complete and help you appeal if denied.
If Your Claim Is Denied
It’s common for initial SSI applications to be rejected. PLBH can help you:
- Request reconsideration with additional medical documentation
- Represent you during hearings before an Administrative Law Judge
- Clarify your functional limitations using medical and vocational evidence
Regaining Stability After a Life-Altering Injury
An amputation doesn’t just affect your body—it affects your livelihood, independence, and peace of mind. If you can no longer work due to a partial amputation, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today. Our team will help you navigate the SSI process, compile medical evidence, and fight for the financial support you deserve.