He received a World Series ring in 1978, so for a lot of us, that makes Brian Doyle an American hero. But in 2015, the former New York Yankee is having trouble receiving Social Security disability benefits, and his setbacks are typical. The former second baseman has already been turned down twice. If you need to receive Social Security disability benefits in the Los Angeles area, you’ll also have to have some patience, and you’ll need the advice and services of an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney.
Doyle made himself a Yankee favorite when he hit .438 against our own L.A. Dodgers in the 1978 World Series. The Yankees won that series in six games. After a bout with leukemia in the 1990s, Doyle began having problems with joint deterioration caused, he believes, by chemotherapy. In 2013, Doyle applied for Social Security disability benefits. He got turned down. Twice. Then he got hit with Parkinson’s Disease.
For many Americans like Brian Doyle, getting Social Security disability benefits has become a painful waiting game. The average time between a hearing request and a decision was 422 days in fiscal year 2014, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). At the end of fiscal 2014, about 970,000 cases were pending across the nation. The SSA blames several factors: the growing number of baby boomers who are aging, limited funding, and budget cuts.
Financial and Personal Impact
While Doyle still receives a modest pension from his baseball career, he and his family rely heavily on support from friends. His wife continues to work full-time to manage household expenses. This illustrates the real-life consequences of delayed disability payments for families who rely on these benefits.
Take Action Early
If you are disabled and unable to work in Southern California, do not wait to begin the application process. The earlier you act, the sooner your case can be reviewed, and the better your chances of minimizing delays. Contact an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney immediately to protect your rights and begin the process.