Recent Blog Posts
TAXING SSDI & SSI BENEFITS
Taxing SSDI and SSI benefits doesn’t seem right. Especially when you consider that SSD benefits are for those who cannot work and you only earned the right to get the benefits by paying taxes. However, they say that there are only two things that you can count on in this life: death and taxes…. Read More »
COPD DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) describes a group of progressive lung diseases. The most common COPD diseases are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema destroys air sacs in your lungs and this interferes with outward air flow. Chronic bronchitis, however, causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which allows mucus to build up in the… Read More »
MEDICAID BENEFITS INFORMATION
WHAT IS MEDICAID? Medicaid benefits are health insurance for people who have a low income. Medicaid also provides health coverage to some pregnant women, children, elderly individuals, and women with breast or cervical cancer. The Medicaid program covers a wide range of health services. For example, it includes paying for hospital stays, doctor visits,… Read More »
AIDS DISABILITY BENEFITS
AIDS disability benefits are available to you if your condition is keeping you from working. Many individuals with HIV infection have severe symptoms that prevent them from working. If you have severe AIDS symptoms and you will be off work for over 12 months, then the SSA may find you eligible for SSDI benefits…. Read More »
GIANT CELL ARTERITIS & DISABILITY
WHAT IS GIANT CELL ARTERITIS? Giant cell arteritis is a serious inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the arteries. Specifically, it usually impacts the medium and large arteries of the head and neck. Because it frequently involves the temporal arteries, it is sometimes called temporal arteritis. Inflammation from giant cell arteritis narrows the… Read More »
HOW TO WIN PRESUMPTIVE DISABILITY BENEFITS
Because filing for SSI benefits can be a long process, it is possible to get temporary benefits in some circumstances. The SSA has made temporary or presumptive disability benefits available for those who claim Supplemental Security Income benefits. These benefits are available for 6 months. You receive these monthly benefits while the Social Security Administration processes… Read More »
MENIERE’S DISEASE & DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS MENIERE’S DISEASE? Meniere’s disease is a rare disorder of the inner ear. The inner ear controls your balance and hearing. If you have a disorder of your inner ear, then it is likely you will suffer hearing loss. Along with hearing loss, Ménière’s disease also causes vertigo and loss of balance. If… Read More »
SUBSTANCE ABUSE & SSD BENEFITS
Substance abuse could prevent you from winning SSDI and SSI benefits. This is because the SSA has rules that prevent you from winning SSD benefits if your disability is due to the abuse of alcohol or drugs. Abuse of alcohol is not having a drink at a party or having a drink with dinner…. Read More »
TESTICULAR CANCER & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS TESTICULAR CANCER? Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the testicles, which are the male reproductive organs located in the scrotum. It is one of the most common types of cancer among men between the ages of 15 and 35. In fact, over 8,000 men will receive the diagnosis of… Read More »
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AND DISABILITY BENEFITS – LISTING 12.02
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its symptoms can prevent you from working. If you cannot work for more than 12 months due to a TBI, then you should file an application for SSDI and SSI benefits. A TBI can occur from a head injury while playing sports. Also, combat veterans may suffer from a… Read More »
TOURETTE SYNDROME & DISABILITY
WINNING SSD BENEFITS FOR TOURETTE SYNDROME Tourette Syndrome is a condition that affects children, teens, and adults across the world. While many people with Tourette’s live full lives, others struggle every day with symptoms that make work or school very difficult. Tourette symptoms can interfere with communication, concentration, social interaction, and the ability to… Read More »
NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS
WHAT ARE NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS? Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of medical conditions that occur during the developmental period, which is age 22 or younger. Possible signs and symptoms of these disorders include problems with cognitive processing. It also includes deficits in attention or impulse control or deficits in social skills. While it is difficult… Read More »
DYSTHYMIA WINS SSDI BENEFITS
WHAT IS DYSTHYMIA? Dysthymia is a persistent depressive disorder. If you have dysthymia, you will experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem. You may also lack interest in doing activities and have trouble with a low or negative mood. While dysthymia may sound like depression, it is different. The way it is different… Read More »
LYMPHOMA & DISABILITY BENEFITS
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is responsible for the production and circulation of white blood cells. The lymphatic system is made up of a network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes that spreads throughout your body. Therefore, if you have cancer of the lymphomatic system it… Read More »
PREVENT DISABILITY WITH HEALTHY HABITS
HEALTHY HABITS THAT CAN HELP PREVENT DISABILITY Preventing disability is a smart thing to think about. At our law firm, we often meet people who never expected to face health problems that limit their work or daily life. Many health conditions happen without warning. However, some diseases can be prevented. Building healthy habits now… Read More »
TRISOMY 9 & SSI BENEFITS
WHAT IS TRISOMY 9? Trisomy 9 is a chromosomal disorder that occurs when there are extra copies of chromosome 9 in the cells of the body. Chromosomes are structures that contain genetic information. The typical human cell has 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs. In cases of trisomy 9, individuals have three copies of chromosome… Read More »
UTERINE CANCER & DISABILITY BENEFITS
Uterine cancer creates major physical and emotional challenges. Many people cannot continue working due to its symptoms and treatments. When this happens, Social Security Disability benefits can offer financial stability. A skilled Social Security Disability lawyer can guide you through the five step disability review process. This blog explains how to obtain disability benefits… Read More »
DEPRESSION CAN QUALIFY YOUR FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS
DEPRESSION CAN QUALIFY YOU FOR SSD BENEFITS If you have depression and can’t work, then you need to know if you qualify for SSD benefits. If you have been off work for over 12 months or you can’t work due to disability, then apply for SSDI and SSI benefits? Depression is a common mental… Read More »
HOW THE SSA EVALUATES PAIN
DOES THE SSA EVALUATE PAIN IN YOUR SSD CASE? The SSA evaluates pain when it considers your claim for Social Security disability benefits. How the SSA evaluates pain is probably one of the most important issues in your SSD case. Social Security Regulations have evolved over time from using only objective medial evidence as… Read More »
CAN SOCIAL SECURITY TAKE AWAY YOUR BENEFITS?
CAN THE SSA TAKE AWAY YOUR DISABILITY BENEFITS? This is one of the most common questions we hear at our SSD law firm. And the short answer is “yes.” Even if you win benefits, the SSA can cease or take away your benefits. This is true whether you receive SSDI benefits or SSI benefits…. Read More »
DIABETIC RETINOPATHY: WIN YOUR SSD CLAIM
WHAT IS DIABETIC RETINOPATHY? If you have either Type 1 Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes, then you have high blood sugar which can eventually damage small blood vessels. These tiny vessels are in the retina, which is the light sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. That damage to retinal vessels is what… Read More »
HOW TO FILL OUT ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING FORM
Are you wondering how to fill out the SSA’s “Activities of Daily Living Form?” Every person who files an application for SSDI or SSI benefits has to fill out the form. The ADL form is not a questionnaire about your past accomplishments. It is not a resume or a chance for you to tell the SSA how you used to do things. Instead, the activities of daily living form is about the problems you face every day due to your medical condition. The form should tell the SSA that you can no longer cook, clean, or do the laundry without help. If you don’t write about your limitations, then the SSA will use your answers to prove that you can work.
SYSTEMIC VASCULITIS & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS SYSTEMIC VASCULITIS? Systemic vasculitis refers to a group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body. Blood vessels inflammation causes the walls of the blood vessels to thicken. Therefore, this reduces the width of the passageway through the blood vessel. If blood flow is restricted, then it… Read More »
BONE CANCER & WINNING SSD BENEFITS
UNDERSTANDING BONE CANCER AND SSD BENEFITS Bone cancer is rare, but it can change your life overnight. Sarcoma of the skeletal system causes pain and weakness. The symptoms and cancer treatments make even simple daily tasks difficult to do. Many people with bone cancer cannot work. If you can’t work for over one year,… Read More »
SMALL INTESTINE TRANSPLANT & SSD BENEFITS
SMALL INTESTINE TRANSPLANT AND DISABILITY BENEFITS Many people do not know that the Social Security Administration (SSA) includes small intestine transplant in its Blue Book list of medical conditions. If you have had a small intestine transplant, then the SSA will automatically consider you disabled for one year after surgery. After that first year,… Read More »
SPINAL ARACHNOIDITIS & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS SPINAL ARACHNOIDITIS? Spinal arachnoiditis is a painful condition that occurs from inflammation of the arachnoid membrane. This membrane surrounds the spinal cord nerves. It can become inflamed from various causes such as back surgery and infections. Additionally, inflammation can be caused by herniated discs, nerve damage, or spinal injuries. Most cases of… Read More »
DO SSD BENEFITS CHANGE IF YOUR HEALTH DECLINES?
Benefit changes may be far from your mind after you win Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You won your case and now your monthly benefits are arriving in your checking account. You might believe the hardest part is over. But do your benefits change or increase if your health… Read More »
TRICK QUESTIONS THE SSA JUDGE MIGHT ASK
WILL THE JUDGE ASK TRICK QUESTIONS DURING THE SSA HEARING? Trick questions are not the norm in Social Security hearings. So, you don’t really need to worry about it. Most judges are not out to confuse, upset, or undermine you during your SSD hearing. However, there are some questions that can cause problems for… Read More »
OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER (ODD) & SSI
WHAT IS OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER (ODD)? Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a mental condition where a child or teenager has a pattern of hostile, defiant behavior. This behavior targets authority figures such as parents, teachers, and other adults. Children and teens with ODD often display behaviors that are aggressive. Also, they usually have trouble… Read More »
AGE DIFFERENCES IN SSD CLAIMS: WILL THEY HELP YOU?
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUNGER VS. OLDER INDIVIDUALS Age differences are a key factor when the SSA decides your disability case. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses age to define whether or not you are disabled. For example, age categories influence how the SSA assesses your ability to adapt to other work. Younger… Read More »
WOMEN & SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Women need to know about Social Security benefits, because they are more likely to need them during their lifetime. Without an understanding of retirement, disability, survivors, and death benefits, women cannot make a financial plan. This article will give you an overview of your options.
CONSULTATIVE EXAM TIPS – Medical Evidence Wins Your Benefits
WHAT IS A CONSULTATIVE EXAM? After you apply for Social Security Disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income benefits, you may receive a notice in the mail. This notice schedules you for a Consultative Exam. The SSA usually schedules an exam with one of their doctors during the first six months of the appeals process…. Read More »
DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR HEARING LOSS
Disability benefits are available for those with severe hearing loss. For instance, the SSA insurance program offers two types of benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. SSDI benefits are awarded if a person is disabled and unable to work for at least one year. You must work… Read More »
KIDNEY DISEASE IN CHILDREN
WHAT IS CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE IN CHILDREN? Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children is a medical condition that affects the kidneys and their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. CKD is a long term condition that can progress over time and lead to kidney failure. If your child has… Read More »
MOTOR NEURON DISORDERS OTHER THAN ALS
WINNING SSD BENEFITS FOR MOTOR NEURON DISORDERS UNDER LISTING 11.22 Motor neuron disorders are progressive diseases that affect the nerve cells responsible for muscle control. These conditions damage your body’s ability to move, speak, and sometimes even breathe. Most people are familiar with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, there are other serious motor neuron… Read More »
BLACK LUNG DISABILITY BENEFITS
BLACK LUNG DISEASE If you have black lung disease or Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis, then you may qualify for benefits under the federal Black Lung program. Black lung disease can be seen on chest X-ray and CT scans. If you have black lung disease, then your chest X-ray or CT scan will show pulmonary nodules… Read More »
CUSHING’S SYNDROME: IS IT DISABLING?
CUSHING’S SYNDROME AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS Cushing’s Syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Cortisol regulates metabolism, blood sugar, and the immune system. Excess cortisol can damage multiple organs and affects your overall health. People with Cushing’s often experience weight gain, muscle weakness, fatigue, and… Read More »
SHELTERED WORK & DISABILITY BENEFITS
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming. One of the most difficult concepts in the process is how the SSA treats work and sheltered work. The SSA wants to know if you can still work. But, the SSA does not treat all work the same. Many people with serious health problems try… Read More »
TIPS TO WIN FIBROMYALGIA DISABILITY BENEFITS
HOW TO APPLY FOR SSDI & SSI BENEFITS FOR FIBROMYALGIA Fibromyalgia benefits are available from the SSA, if you cannot work for more than 12 months. If you suffer from fibromyalgia and can’t work, then you should apply for SSD benefits. You can apply for SSDI & SSI benefits on the Social Security website…. Read More »
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT BENEFITS
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT & DISABILITY BENEFITS A kidney transplant is often the last option for people with severe kidney disease. When the kidneys can no longer remove waste and fluids, dialysis or transplant is needed to stay alive. A kidney transplant offers a chance for a longer life. However, the surgery and recovery process are… Read More »
THE DATE LAST INSURED AND DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT DOES THE “DLI” STAND FOR? The “Date Last Insured” is the last day you were insured for SSDI benefits. You may wonder what that means. After all, you probably didn’t realize that the SSD program is an insurance program. But, it is. For example, you pay your insurance “premiums” by paying your taxes… Read More »
PANCREAS TRANSPLANT AND SSD BENEFITS
WINNING SSD BENEFITS AFTER ORGAN TRANSPLANT When a person undergoes a pancreas transplant, it means their pancreas is no longer able to function properly. The pancreas plays a critical role in producing insulin and managing blood sugar levels. When it fails, life threatening complications occur. A pancreas transplant is usually performed to treat severe… Read More »
LUPUS DISABILITY BENEFITS
CAN YOU GET LUPUS SSD BENEFITS? Lupus disability benefits are available for people with severe lupus symptoms who cannot work for over one year. Are you a worker who pays your taxes? Did you stop working for over 12 months due to lupus? If so, then you can apply for Social Security Disability benefits… Read More »
MIXED CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE
WHAT IS MIXED CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE? Mixed connective tissue disorder (MCTD) is a rare autoimmune disorder. It shares symptoms with several other connective tissue diseases, including systemic lupus, scleroderma, polymyositis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Because it shares symptoms with so many other disorders, it is sometimes referred to as an overlap syndrome. Some of these… Read More »
SIX MYTHS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY
DEBUNKING SIX FALSE BELIEFS ABOUT SSD BENEFITS There are many myths about Social Security Disability benefits. We hear them every day. Most people, after filing an application for SSDI or SSI benefits, believe in some of them. Do not fall for myths about SSD benefits. Don’t rely on the opinions of your friends or… Read More »
CHILDHOOD CEREBRAL PALSY & SSI BENEFITS
Childhood cerebral palsy SSI benefits are available for children through the Social Security Administration. In order to receive SSI benefits, you child’s cerebral palsy symptoms must be severe. For example, their cerebral palsy would effect them physically, but may also give them trouble doing things that other children can do with ease. Perhaps they… Read More »
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION & SSD BENEFITS
Workers’ compensation provides benefits to those who suffer an on the job injury. Benefits include medical treatment for work related conditions. Benefits also include cash payments that partially replace lost wages. Workers’ compensation pays temporary total disability benefits benefits while you recover from your injury. If the condition has lasting consequences, then the program… Read More »
EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME & DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME (EDS)? Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of genetic conditions. These conditions affect the connective tissues in your body. Because there are different forms of the syndrome, symptoms differ for each person. If you need SSDI benefits due to your EDS, then contact our law firm today. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is… Read More »
POLYMYOSITIS: HOW TO PROVE YOUR DISABILITY CLAIM
POLYMYOSITIS, DERMATOMYOSITIS, AND SSD BENEFITS If you have polymyositis and you cannot work, then you should apply for SSD benefits on the SSA’s website. When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you must prove to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that your medical condition prevents you from working. The SSA uses a set… Read More »
TOP 10 SIGNS YOU WILL WIN DISABILITY BENEFITS
Looking for the top 10 signs you will win your SSD benefits? We have the answers. Do you have enough work credits to qualify for benefits? Have you submitted all of your medical records to prove your disability? Are you over 50 years and you can prove you cannot do your past job? Can you prove you can’t do a seated job? Can you prove that you can’t do skilled work? Additionally, can you prove that you cannot sustain a 40 hour work week? Have you hired an experienced attorney to help you win your hearing and prepare your for court? If you can answer yes to these questions, then that is a sign that you are likely to win your SSD benefits.
