Recent Blog Posts
WHAT QUESTIONS WILL THE JUDGE ASK AT MY DISABILITY HEARING?
HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE SSA HEARING Are you wondering what questions the judge will ask at your SSA hearing? Don’t worry, an SSA hearing is nothing like a criminal hearing. You are the main witness. But, you will not be grilled with questions like they do to witnesses on television. Also, the judge… Read More »
STROKE DISABILITY BENEFITS
CAN YOU GET DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR A STROKE? If you are suffering severe stroke symptoms and cannot work, then you can apply for stroke disability benefits. However, you must be unable to work for over 12 months for the SSA to pay you SSD benefits. You can apply for SSDI benefits and Supplemental Security… Read More »
POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER WINS SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER? Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. PTSD can occur in response to a wide range of traumatic experiences. For example, it can occur due combat, sexual or physical assault, natural disasters, accidents,… Read More »
DEMENTIA & DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS DEMENTIA? Dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, dementia is a group of conditions that effect your brain’s neurological health. For example, you may have dementia if you have ongoing memory loss and poor judgment. Additionally, dementia usually involves a progressive decline in your cognitive function, memory, and language skills. Dementia interferes… 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. One must work first a certain number of… Read More »
UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS & SSD BENEFITS
CAN YOU COLLECT UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS AND ALSO APPLY FOR SSD BENEFITS? Many people collect unemployment benefits after they lose a job. Sometimes, people file for unemployment benefits, thinking they will soon return to work. However, they then realize a disability is going to prevent them from returning to work. When you collect unemployment benefits,… Read More »
THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS
THE SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY PROGRAM IS GROWING The Social Security Disability program has seen significant growth in both costs and the number of beneficiaries in the last 25 years. Since 1990, the percentage of the working population getting Social Security disability benefits has doubled—from about 1 in 40 individuals to about 1 in 20…. Read More »
VOCATIONAL EXPERT TESTIMONY MUST BE BASED ON EVIDENCE
VOCATIONAL EXPERT TESTIMONY Vocational expert (VE) testimony requires evidence at an ALJ hearing. If you already had a hearing before an SSA judge, a VE probably gave testimony during your hearing. VEs are often called by the judge to testify about the number of jobs that are available to a person seeking benefits. The… Read More »
SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS – WHEN TO FILE
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY AND SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME BENEFITS Many people contact our office asking whether they should file an application for SSDI benefits or Supplemental Security Income. Usually they wonder if they qualify for benefits. But they also wonder if they should wait to file for benefits. After all, many people with injuries or… Read More »
ANAL CANCER & DISABILITY
WHAT IS ANAL CANCER? Anal cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the anus. The anus is the opening at the end of the digestive tract, through which stool passes out of the body. Anal cancer usually begins in the cells that line the inside of the… Read More »
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME? Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a systemic disorder whose main symptom is unexplained fatigue. The fatigue is not relieved by rest and can worsen with physical and mental activity. CFS can occur in children, as well as in adults. The CDC defines the syndrome as one of ongoing fatigue… Read More »
GRID RULES AND WINNING SSD BENEFITS
WHAT ARE THE GRID RULES? GRID Rules are regulations the SSA uses to award SSD benefits if you are over 50 years old. The GRID Rules are actually known as the Medical Vocational Guidelines. These guidelines apply to you if your medical condition does not meet or equal an SSA listing. These special rules… Read More »
How Much Money Is My Monthly Disability Benefit?
FILING FOR SSDI & SSI DISABILITY BENEFITS A monthly disability benefits is available if you cannot work for 12 months or longer. Disability benefits replace your income and Cannon Disability Law can help. Under Social Security rules, if you are unable to work a full time job because of a physical or mental condition,… Read More »
FIBROMYALGIA AND DISABILITY BENEFITS
SSD BENEFITS AND FIBROMYALGIA Fibromyalgia is a medical condition for which the Social Security Administration will pay SSD benefits. You can obtain Social Security benefits from the SSA if you have fibromyalgia and are unable to work. However, you must show that your illness meets certain rules and will last longer than 12 months…. Read More »
NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS
Neurological disorders can result in winning SSD benefits if they prevent you from working for at least 12 months. In order to win SSDI and SSI benefits, your neurological condition must meet certain rules called the SSA listing. The “listing” is a long list of severe physical and mental conditions that the SSA agrees… Read More »
CAREGIVERS & THE SSD PROCESS
HOW CAREGIVERS CAN HELP THROUGH THE DISABILITY PROCESS If you’re a caregiver for someone with a severe disability, then you already know how challenging daily life can be. But when your loved one can no longer work, the stress of lost income adds another layer of difficulty. You may be looking for answers for… Read More »
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR DISABILITY HEARING?
Are you wondering what questions the judge will ask at your disability hearing? Will you need to explain your medical symptoms in court? Should you bring other witnesses to your ALJ hearing ? How long does the hearing take? Do you know at the end of the hearing if you have won SSD benefits?… Read More »
TURNER SYNDROME & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS TURNER SYNDROME? Turner syndrome (TS), also called Monosomy X, is a genetic condition that impacts females. It occurs when a girl is born with one of their two X chromosomes completely or partly absent. Normally, a child is born with 46 chromosomes in each cell (23 pairs). However, in TS, the child… Read More »
ADHD DISABILITY BENEFITS
ADHD STANDS FOR ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER ADHD benefits may be available to replace your income if you cannot work for at least 12 months. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental condition that usually affects children. However, ADHD also impacts the life of many adults. Symptoms of ADHD include not being able to pay attention or… Read More »
HOW TO CREATE YOUR MY SSA ACCOUNT
HOW TO CREATE YOUR PERSONAL SOCIAL SECURITY ACCOUNT A free and secure My SSA account provides personalized tools for everyone, whether you receive benefits or not. You can use your account to request a replacement Social Security card and estimate your future retirement benefits. You can also use it to check the status of… Read More »
BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT & SSD BENEFITS
DOES A BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT QUALIFY FOR SSD BENEFITS? A bone marrow transplant is one of the most complex medical procedures that a person can have. You might need a bone marrow transplant if you have cancer, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Doctors will transplant healthy bone marrow cells into your body…. Read More »
FIVE SECRETS TO HELP YOU WIN SSD BENEFITS
Secret really isn’t the right word to describe what this article is about. However, some of the issues we are going to discuss are not well known, even though they are important to winning SSD benefits. Therefore, perhaps you could call them secrets. The following five “secrets” will help you file your application for… Read More »
COSTELLO SYNDROME & SSD BENEFITS
At Cannon Disability Law, we help families deal with complex process of filing for SSI benefits. When a child has a rare condition like Costello Syndrome, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Costello Syndrome causes a wide range of physical and developmental challenges, many of which can qualify the child for… Read More »
BANKRUPTCY COURT TO HEAR SSA OVERPAYMENT CASE
BANKRUPTCY COURT HAS JURISDICTION TO HEAR OVERPAYMENT CASE Overpayment cases are not normally heard by any judges outside of the Social Security Administration. However, the 5th Circuit, in Benjamin v. United States of America, (5th Circuit 07/26/2019), has ruled that the Bankruptcy Court has jurisdiction to hear a representative payee’s overpayment case. Benjamin was acting as… Read More »
AUTISM BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN
WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN CHILDREN? Autism benefits are available for children who have Autism spectrum disorder. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a medical condition that affects a child’s nervous system, growth and development. Parents usually notice the symptoms of ASD during their child’s first 3 years of life. For example, some children… Read More »
WHAT IS A TRIAL WORK PERIOD?
A trial work period is a nine month period of time during a 5 year rolling timeframe. During these 5 years, you can try to “work” while still receiving SSDI benefits. You have 9 months, in a 5 year period, to earn over $1160 and still receive your SSD payments. For 2025, a trial work period begins when you earn more than $1160 in one month. If you are considering going back to work while on SSDI payments, then it is essential to consult an attorney to know your options before you start working. If you don’t, then you could end up with an overpayment of SSDI benefits and you will have to pay them back.
SOMATIC DISORDER & DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS A SOMATIC DISORDER? A somatic disorder can prevent you from working a full time job. A somatic disorder requires you to have physical symptoms that are not explained by another medical condition. However, your doctor will not diagnose a somatic disorder only because a medical cause can’t be found for a physical… Read More »
ATTORNEY FEES IN DISABILITY CASES
Attorney fees may be on your mind if you need to apply for SSD benefits. The SSA controls the amount of the attorney fee in SSD cases. You only pay an attorney fee if you win your case and it comes out of your back benefit.
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 »
INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS – LISTING 14.09
SSDI AND SSI BENEFITS FOR INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS Inflammatory Arthritis, under the SSA’s listing, is meant to cover a number of physical conditions. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Typically, inflammation of your major joints is the main sign of arthritis. Major joints include… Read More »
CAN YOU WORK PART-TIME & STILL GET SSD BENEFITS?
PART-TIME WORK AND IT’S IMPACT ON YOUR DISABILITY BENEFITS At Cannon Disability Law, many of our clients ask the same important question: Can I work part-time and still keep my Social Security disability benefits? The answer depends on the type of benefits you receive—SSDI or SSI. Each benefit program has different rules, and understanding… Read More »
SPINAL CORD INJURY & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS A SPINAL CORD INJURY? A spinal cord injury refers to damage to the spinal cord. Your spinal cord is a long tube of nerve tissue that runs from the brain down through the center of your back. The spinal cord contains nerve fibers that transmit messages between the brain and the rest… Read More »
BULIMIA & DISABILITY BENEFITS
CAN YOU GET DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR BULIMIA? If you suffer from bulimia nervosa, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Bulimia is a serious mental health disorder that affects both your mind and your body. It can make it hard to work, keep a job, or even take care of yourself. According to… Read More »
PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS AND DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS? Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that occurs in some people who have psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition. The common symptoms of the disease are red, scaly patches on the skin caused by the accelerated growth of skin cells. You can see this type of skin issue in… Read More »
HOW TO WIN NEVADA SSD BENEFITS
THE SSD PROCESS IN NEVADA Nevada SSD benefits are available if you cannot work for 12 months or longer due to your health. Most people who are suffering from a physical or mental condition that prevents them from working should apply for SSD benefits. It is possible for you to have either a disabling… Read More »
PERIPHERAL NERVE CANCER & WINNING SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS PERIPHERAL NERVE CANCER? Peripheral nerve cancer is a rare type of cancer that originates in the peripheral nerves, which are the vast network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves play a vital role in transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the rest of the body. Your… Read More »
UNDERSTANDING SSA’S LISTING OF IMPAIRMENTS
WHAT IS SSA’S LISTING OF IMPAIRMENTS? The Listing of Impairments is a list of medical conditions that the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to determine whether you have a severe medical condition. If the medical condition is severe and you prevents you from working for 12 months or more, then you should be paid… Read More »
YOUR HEARING IS SCHEDULED: WHAT NOW?
Your hearing may be one of the most important events that you experience in the Social Security process of winning SSDI and SSI benefits. In most cases, people who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will go to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You… Read More »
THE 5 DAY RULE – Evidence Submission in Disability Hearings
THE 5 DAY EVIDENCE SUBMISSION RULE As you start to prepare for your Social Security hearing, you should be aware of the rule that requires all evidence be into the judge 5 business days before the hearing. Even though the Social Security hearings are legally binding, the normal rules of evidence do not apply. However,… Read More »
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME & DISABILITY
WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME? Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a fairly common condition. It comes from overuse of the hand while doing constant movements. The carpal tunnel is an opening in your wrist that is formed by the carpal bones on the bottom of the wrist and the carpal ligament at the top… Read More »
MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA & DISABILITY BENEFITS
UNDERSTANDING MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that develops in the outer layer of the skin. Merkel Cell Carcinoma is most commonly found in areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, head, and neck. It can develop on any part of the… Read More »
PARKINSON’S DISEASE & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PARKINSON’S DISEASE Every year, around 60,000 Americans get Parkinson’s disease. Around the world, there are more than 10 million people living with the condition. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the nervous system. It also affects the parts of the body controlled by the nerves. Parkinson’s… Read More »
HOW TO FILL OUT SSA’S WORK HISTORY FORM
WHAT IS SSA’S WORK HISTORY REPORT FORM? Do you know how to fill out SSA’s Work History form? If you are asking yourself this question, then that is good! You should worry about what you write on the forms that you send to Social Security. Believe it or not, the work history form is… Read More »
OVER 50? The “GRID” Rules Help Older Workers Win Disability Benefits
OLDER WORKERS CAN WIN SSDI BENEFITS Older workers have a better chance of winning benefits because of the way Social Security law works. The SSA knows that it is difficult for older workers to change jobs and learn new skills. Additionally, it is challenging to find a job. Most employers don’t want to hire… Read More »
DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR LEWY BODY DEMENTIA
UNDERSTANDING LEWY BODY DEMENTIA Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a progressive neurological disorder that impacts your cognitive ability, behavior, and movement. It is the second leading cause of dementia in the elderly, following Alzheimer’s disease. This complex medical condition impacts almost 1.4 million individuals in the United States, making it a major cause of… Read More »
ESOPHAGEAL CANCER & SSD
WHAT IS ESOPHAGEAL CANCER? Esophageal cancer is a malignant cancer that affects the digestive system. The cancer occurs in the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Esophageal cancer may spread throughout the esophagus and it may also extend beyond the edges of the primary tumor. In general, squamous… Read More »
TIPS ON WINNING YOUR NEVADA MENTAL HEALTH CASE
Nevada mental health benefits are available to you if you cannot work for longer than one year due to a severe mental illness. However, you will need to get treatment on a regular basis so that your medical records support your case. If you need help, then call Cannon Disability Law. We represent you for free. You only pay an attorney fee if we win your SSDI and SSI benefits for you.
HOW TO APPLY FOR SSD BENEFITS
HOW TO FILE AN APPLICATION FOR SSD BENEFITS ONLINE Do you know how to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits? Are you wondering what is the best way to apply? If so, we have some answers. If you have access to the internet, then you should apply on the Social Security’s website…. Read More »
YOU HAD A HEART ATTACK? CAN YOU GET DISABILITY?
HEART ATTACK AND WINNING SSDI BENEFITS Did you have a heart attack and severe problems following the heart attack? For example, do you now get chest pain when you exert yourself ? Do you suffer from severe fatigue and you need to sleep for two hours every afternoon? Due to your problems, perhaps you… Read More »
MALIGNANT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)
UNDERSTANDING MALIGNANT MULTPLE SCLEROSIS Malignant Multiple Sclerosis (Malignant MS) is a rare and severe form of MS. This condition causes intense inflammation and serious damage to myelin, the protective layer that surrounds your nerves. As myelin breaks down, more lesions and plaque form in the brain and spinal cord. This damage makes it harder… Read More »
