Best Social Security Disability Lawyers in Thivais

About Social Security Disability Law in Thivais, Greece

Social Security Disability in Greece is primarily delivered through two pillars. The first pillar is the social insurance system that pays disability pensions to insured workers who, due to illness or injury, are no longer able to work at a normal capacity. This is administered by the Unified Social Security Fund known as e-EFKA. The second pillar consists of non-contributory welfare disability benefits and allowances for people with disabilities who may not qualify for an insurance-based pension. These benefits are administered by OPEKA, the national organization for welfare benefits. Both pillars rely on medical evaluations to confirm disability status.

Medical certification of disability is carried out by KEPA, the national Center for the Certification of Disability. KEPA issues a decision that includes a disability percentage and a duration of validity. Common thresholds used across Greek law include 50 percent, 67 percent, and 80 percent, with higher percentages generally unlocking broader entitlements. A valid KEPA decision is central to most disability-related rights, including pensions or allowances, access to free or reduced-cost healthcare through EOPYY, and certain tax and social benefits.

For residents of Thivais, applications are filed digitally or through local service points, including e-EFKA branches and Citizens Service Centers known as KEP. Processing times vary based on medical assessment scheduling and document completeness. If approved, payments are often retroactive to the date of application or to the date specified by the decision.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many disability applications are straightforward, but legal help can be critical in complex or disputed cases. A lawyer can be helpful if your KEPA disability percentage is lower than expected or has been denied, if your e-EFKA disability pension application is rejected, or if you need to file an appeal within strict deadlines. Legal representation can also be important where the cause of disability is linked to a workplace accident or occupational disease, when there are disagreements about insurance contributions or insured periods, or when the case involves coordination with other countries due to work abroad.

You may also benefit from counsel when disability benefits interact with other entitlements, such as unemployment support, the Minimum Guaranteed Income, family benefits, mobility allowances, or tax relief. A lawyer can help secure back pay, protect against overpayment recoveries, prepare for KEPA re-evaluations, and arrange representation for individuals who cannot manage their case due to severe health issues.

Local Laws Overview

Greek disability law is national in scope, but it is implemented locally in Thivais through e-EFKA branches, KEPA medical committees, and municipal social services. The core legal framework for insurance-based disability pensions is found in the National Insurance Code and subsequent reforms, including Law 3863-2010 which established KEPA and Law 4387-2016 which reorganized social insurance under e-EFKA. Welfare disability benefits are administered under the social solidarity framework managed by OPEKA. Data protection rules apply to medical records and personal information under European Union and Greek privacy laws.

Eligibility for an e-EFKA disability pension typically requires two elements. First, medical certification of reduced capacity for work at a defined percentage, commonly at or above 67 percent for total disability and 80 percent for severe disability, with partial disability recognized from 50 percent in some contexts. Second, a minimum number of days of insurance contributions, which depend on age, the cause of disability, and other factors. Welfare disability benefits through OPEKA generally require a valid KEPA percentage and meeting income or residence criteria, rather than insurance contributions.

Appeals and reviews follow a structured path. KEPA medical decisions can be challenged by requesting a re-examination by a higher-level committee. Administrative objections against e-EFKA decisions can be filed within timelines stated on the decision notice. Unresolved disputes can be brought before the competent Administrative Courts. Time limits are strict and run from the date you receive the decision, so reading the notice carefully is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an e-EFKA disability pension and OPEKA disability benefits

An e-EFKA disability pension is insurance-based and depends on your contribution record and the certified level of disability. OPEKA disability benefits are non-contributory welfare programs that provide allowances to people with disabilities based on medical certification and financial or residence criteria. Many people apply for one or the other, and some may qualify for both depending on their circumstances and legal compatibility rules.

What role does KEPA play in my application

KEPA conducts the medical assessment and issues an official decision stating your disability percentage and the period it is valid. This decision is required for most disability pensions, allowances, and related benefits. Without a KEPA decision, applications are usually incomplete.

How do I start an application in Thivais

You can apply online through the national portals or submit your application at a local e-EFKA branch or a Citizens Service Center known as KEP. You will need identification, your social security number known as AMKA, insurance details, medical records, and any hospital or specialist reports to support your case. For welfare benefits, you apply through OPEKA channels or KEP.

What medical documents should I prepare

Bring recent specialist reports, hospital discharge summaries, imaging results, laboratory tests, and a detailed medical history describing how your condition limits your work capacity and daily life. Documents should be clear, specific, and preferably recent. If documents are in a foreign language, certified translations may be required.

How is the disability percentage determined

KEPA uses standardized medical guidelines that align conditions with disability percentages based on severity, functional limitations, and prognosis. The committees consider objective findings and the overall impact on work capacity. The percentage determines eligibility for different benefits and rights.

Can I work while receiving disability benefits

It depends on the benefit and the level of disability. Some recipients may work part-time or perform light duties if allowed by program rules and if their health permits. Working without notifying e-EFKA or OPEKA can lead to overpayments or termination. Always confirm the rules that apply to your specific benefit and report changes promptly.

How long does the process take

Timelines vary based on how quickly KEPA can schedule your assessment, the completeness of your documents, and administrative backlog. It is common for the process to take several weeks to several months. Approved benefits are often paid retroactively from the application date or the date indicated in the decision.

What if my application is denied or my percentage is lower than expected

You can request a re-examination of the KEPA decision and file administrative objections against e-EFKA or OPEKA decisions. Deadlines are short and appear on your notification. If administrative remedies do not resolve the issue, you can file a case with the Administrative Court. A lawyer can help you meet deadlines, gather stronger medical evidence, and present your case.

Do disability benefits affect my healthcare coverage

Approved disability status often ensures or improves access to public healthcare through EOPYY and may reduce co-payments for certain services. With higher disability percentages, additional benefits may apply, such as assistive devices, transportation support, or priority access to services, subject to program rules.

What happens when the validity period ends

Many KEPA decisions have a fixed duration. Before it expires, you must apply for re-evaluation if your condition continues. If your health has improved, benefits may be reduced or discontinued. If your condition has worsened, you can present updated medical evidence to support an increased percentage.

Additional Resources

e-EFKA local branch in the Thivais area can guide you on contribution records, disability pension applications, and objections. Staff can advise on required forms and how to track your file.

KEPA medical assessment units in Central Greece handle disability evaluations and re-examinations. They schedule medical committees and issue the official disability percentage decisions.

OPEKA regional services manage welfare disability allowances, the Minimum Guaranteed Income, and related social benefits. They provide information on eligibility, application methods, and payment schedules.

Citizens Service Centers known as KEP in Thivais accept applications for many public services, help with document submissions, and provide certified copies where needed.

Municipality of Thivais social services can assist with practical support, social care referrals, and guidance on local programs for persons with disabilities.

National disability advocacy bodies such as the National Confederation of Disabled People known as ESAMEA offer information on rights, accessibility, and policy changes that may affect your benefits.

Local bar associations and legal aid programs may provide referrals to lawyers experienced in social security disputes and, for eligible low-income residents, access to free or reduced-cost legal assistance.

Next Steps

Clarify your goal. Decide whether you are seeking an e-EFKA disability pension, a welfare disability allowance through OPEKA, or both. Different benefits have different requirements and documentation.

Gather evidence. Collect recent medical reports, test results, hospital records, and a concise summary from your treating physician that explains functional limitations and expected duration of your condition.

Check your insurance record. Verify your insured periods and contributions with e-EFKA. Correct any gaps or errors early to avoid delays in eligibility assessment for a disability pension.

File your application. Submit your application through the national online portals, your local e-EFKA branch, or a KEP office. Keep copies of everything you file and note the date of submission.

Attend the KEPA examination. Bring your identification and originals of your medical documents. Be prepared to describe how your condition affects work and daily activities.

Monitor deadlines. Read decision letters carefully and calendar any appeal or re-examination deadlines. Missing a deadline can limit your options.

Consider legal advice. If your case is complex, disputed, or time sensitive, consult a lawyer who handles social security and disability matters in Thivais. A lawyer can prepare appeals, represent you before administrative bodies and courts, and help coordinate benefits.

Update your file. Report changes in health, employment, or family situation as required. Provide new medical evidence if your condition worsens or if you are due for re-evaluation.

Protect your rights. If you receive an overpayment notice or benefit suspension, seek advice promptly. Early action can prevent larger debts and preserve essential support.

Stay informed. Disability rules and benefit amounts can change. Check with official services or trusted advisors to ensure you have the most current information for Thivais, Greece.