Tag Archives: SSA
MENTAL ABILITIES YOU MUST HAVE TO PERFORM UNSKILLED WORK
Certain mental abilities are necessary to do any type of work, even work that does not require skills. Skills have a specific definition that the SSA uses when they are deciding if you can work. For example, the SSA states that a skill is knowledge of a work activity which requires the exercise of… Read More »
DOWN SYNDROME & DISABILITY BENEFITS
Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which a person is born with an extra chromosome. Usually, a baby is born with 46 chromosomes. However, babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21. The medical term for having an extra copy of a chromosome is ‘trisomy.’ Therefore, another name for Down… Read More »
WHY DOES SSA KEEP DENYING MY CASE?
WHY ISN’T THE SSA GRANTING YOUR BENEFITS? At Cannon Disability Law, we hear a version of this question every day. People look at their neighbors and believe they should not be getting SSDI and SSI benefits. Also, people compare themselves to others and think their illness is worse. Therefore, they believe they should get benefits… Read More »
KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY AND SSD BENEFITS
Knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful joint operations. However, 20% or people who have surgery end up with chronic pain. If you have chronic pain, then you may not be able to work and should apply for disability benefits. If knee surgery left you using canes or a walker to ambulate, then apply for SSDI benefits today. Call Cannon Disability Law for a free review of your knee replacement disability claim.
TIPS ON SURVIVING THE WAIT FOR SSD BENEFITS
Here are seven tips on how to survive the long wait for SSD benefits. You can apply for other benefits, like Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF. Health insurance options are also available. Other tips require you to save money and cut expenses. Hiring a lawyer to help you win SSD benefits is also a useful tip.
THE FIVE STEP PROCESS TO QUALIFY FOR SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS THE FIVE STEP PROCESS TO WIN SSD BENEFITS? INTRODUCTION TO SSA’S SEQUENTIAL EVALUATION PROCESS The SSA has a five step review process that they use to see if you qualify for SSDI and SSI benefits. Each step is a question that helps the SSA know what to do with your claim. Depending… Read More »
DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR DEPRESSION – LISTING 12.04
WHAT IS DEPRESSION? Depression is a mental health condition that brings on chronic feelings of sadness and low mood, loss of interest in activities, and trouble doing your daily activities. A case of depression can be mild or severe and last for a short or long time. For example, you may have a mild… Read More »
RESIDUAL FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY & SSD
WHAT IS RESIDUAL FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY? Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is one of the most important concepts in your Social Security benefits case. The reason it is so important is your RFC can make the difference between winning or losing your SSDI and SSI benefits. If you can prove that your RFC prevents you from… Read More »
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND WINNING DISABILITY BENEFITS
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS IS A DISABILITY UNDER SSA’S RULES Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an auto-immune disease that affects the central nervous system. When an individual suffers from Multiple Sclerosis, the disease damages the covers of the nerve cells in the brain. It also damages nerve cells in the spinal cord and optic nerves. This nerve… Read More »
GLIOBLASTOMA & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS GLIOBLASTOMA? Glioblastoma is an aggressive and highly malignant brain tumor that forms from glial tissue of the brain and spinal cord. The cells that look very different from normal cells. The cells spread aggressively throughout the brain tissue, which makes it difficult to treat. It is the most common malignant brain cancer… Read More »
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 »
SPINAL STENOSIS & DISABILITY
WHAT IS SPINAL STENOSIS? Spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the nerves that pass through it. Compression of the nerves causes pain and numbness. It can also cause weakness in your back, legs, and arms. There are two main types of spinal stenosis: lumbar and cervical… Read More »
ARE YOU UNDER INVESTIGATION BY THE SSA?
HOW DOES AN SSA INVESTIGATION START? How do you know if the SSA is investigating you? Most people who need SSD and SSI benefits are not aware the Social Security Administration can investigate you. However, the SSA does investigate people who apply for benefits. Therefore, you need to know that if you file for… Read More »
PAST RELEVANT WORK: SSA’S NEW 5 YEAR RULE
For years, SSA’s definition of “past relevant work” has included all the jobs you have done in the last 15 years. But this week, the SSA made a significant change to their rules. On June 22, 2024, the SSA announced that now past relevant work is work done in the last 5 years, instead of the past 15 years. This is a welcome change that benefits the SSA and those who file for SSDI and SSI benefits.
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 »
HOW TO FILE A REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION
DID THE SSA DENY YOUR APPLICATION FOR SSDI & SSI BENEFITS? Request reconsideration online at the SSA’s website if the SSA denied your application for SSD benefits. Don’t wait to appeal your SSI or SSDI initial denial. You can file your appeal online. You don’t have to fill out forms by hand or go… Read More »
ENDOMETRIOSIS & SSDI BENEFITS
WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS? Endometriosis is a chronic, painful condition that affects women. The condition occurs when the endometrium, which is the lining inside the uterus, begins to grow outside the uterus. The endometrial cells then implant on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and other organs in the pelvis. This causes pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding,… Read More »
WHAT YOU NEED FROM YOUR DOCTOR TO PROVE DISABILITY
THE BURDEN TO PROVE DISABILITY IS ON YOU Your doctor can help you prove to the SSA that you have a severe medical condition. You need the help of your doctor. Because the burden to prove that you deserve benefits is on you. Submitting medical evidence is important. But statements from your doctor about… Read More »
WHEN DO SSDI BENEFITS END?
WHAT ARE THE REASONS THAT SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS END? There are a number of reasons why Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can end. This article will discuss the four most common reasons for an end to your Social Security Disability benefits. The first event that usually ends SSDI benefits is an improvement… Read More »
THE BURDEN TO PROVE DISABILITY IS ON YOU
YOU HAVE THE BURDEN TO PROVE DISABILITY AT YOUR SSA HEARING Most people think it is easy to prove disability to the SSA. Those who apply for benefits think they will win at their hearing, if they simply explain their disabling symptoms to the Judge. But the SSA system doesn’t work like that. The… 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 $1110 and still receive your SSD payments. For 2024, a trial work period begins when you earn more than $1110 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.
WILL SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS INCREASE?
In order to know if your Social Security benefits will increase, you need to first understand the basics of your benefits. There are Social Security Disability benefits. Also, there are Supplemental Security Income benefits. Finally, there are retirement benefits. All three of these programs are run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This article… 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 »
ADJUSTMENT DISORDER & SSD BENEFITS
An adjustment disorder is similar to depression, but it may not last as long. If your symptoms persist and keep you from working for more than one year, then you may qualify for SSDI and SSI benefits. The burden is on you to prove that you meet the SSA’s criteria for disability. For this, you will need ongoing medical treatment and the support of your doctor and a counselor. It can take up to two years to win SSD benefits. Therefore, it is crucial to apply for benefits as soon as you realize you cannot work due to your adjustment disorder. Take proactive steps towards financial security by hiring an attorney and starting the SSD application process.
APPEALS COUNCIL REVIEW
APPEALS COUNCIL REVIEW – SHOULD YOU APPEAL? Appeals Council review is the next step after an ALJ hearing. If the ALJ sent you an Unfavorable Decision after your hearing, you should be asking if it is time to seek the Appeals Council review. The Appeals Council reviews ALJ decisions from all over the country…. Read More »
REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE & YOUR BENEFITS
WHAT IS A REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE? A representative payee is a friend, relative, or other interested party that the SSA appoints to protect the interests of the person who is being paid Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. More than eight million people, who get monthly SSDI and SSI payments, need… Read More »
FRIEDREICH’S ATAXIA & SSD BENEFITS
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system and causes progressive problems with balance, muscle weakness, and sensation loss in the legs and arms. If you have Friedreich’s ataxia, then you should apply for SSDI and SSI benefits under SSA listing 11.17. Additionally, Friedreich’s ataxia is a compassionate allowance that provides for an immediate award of benefits if you can prove it prevents you from working.
ADDISON’S DISEASE & SSD BENEFITS
Addison’s disease is also known as primary adrenal insufficiency. The disease can cause many severe symptoms that can prevent you from working. Addison’s disease is under the SSA listing for endocrine disorders because it’s a type of adrenal gland disorder. The SSA will look at how your health is impacted to determine if you should be paid Social Security Disability benefits. For example, the SSA will look at heart symptoms, anxiety disorder, and weight loss. All of your symptoms will be considered. If you cannot work for more than 12 months, then you should be paid SSDI benefits.
SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA & WINNING SSD BENEFITS
Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the soft tissues of your body. Your soft tissues include your muscles, tendons, fat, blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, and the tissues surrounding your joints. Cancer of the soft tissues can develop anywhere in the body. However, the cancer is found most often in the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. If you have soft tissue sarcoma, hire Cannon Disability Law to help you win SSD benefits. There is no attorney fee to pay unless you win SSD benefits.
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY & DISABILITY BENEFITS
WHAT IS PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY? Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage to the nerves outside of the brain and the spinal column. People who experience neuropathy feel pain. They also feel that their hands and feet are numb and weak. Many individuals describe tingling sensations in their hands and feet. They will often state the sensation… 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 »
SSA USES SIX DOMAINS TO DESCRIBE CHILDHOOD DISABILITY
WHAT ARE THE SIX CHILDHOOD DISABILITY DOMAINS ? In order to win SSI or childhood disability benefits, you must be familiar with the six domains the SSA uses to describe childhood medical conditions. The six domains are listed below. If your child’s mental or physical condition does not meet a listing, then you can… Read More »
EATING DISORDERS & ANOREXIA CAN BE DISABLING
Eating disorders qualify for SSD and SSI benefits, if they keep you from working for over one year. You must have medical evidence to present to the SSA about your condition. This medical evidence should be from your treating doctor. It should discuss how your symptoms result in disability.
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 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 proof… 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 called the Medical Vocational Guidelines. These guidelines apply to you if your medical condition does not meet or equal an SSA listing. These special rules also… Read More »
HOW TO CHECK THE STATUS OF YOUR DISABILITY CASE
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO CHECK THE STATUS OF YOUR CASE If you need to check the status of your case, then you have come to the right place. It can take up to two years to receive benefits after you file your application for SSDI and SSI benefits. Have two or three months… 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 »
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 »
THE IMPORTANCE OF MEDICAL RECORDS IN YOUR DISABILITY CASE
THE SSA NEEDS MEDICAL RECORDS AT EVERY LEVEL OF YOUR SSD CASE You must understand the importance of collecting your medical records when you file for SSD benefits. You can apply for SSD and SSI benefits online at the Social Security’s website. When you first apply for benefits, you should include a copy 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. The reason you might need a bone marrow transplant is if you have cancer, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Doctors will transplant healthy bone marrow cells… Read More »
APPLYING FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS
FILING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS Applying for disability, or SSD and SSI benefits, can be stressful because you may not know what you need to do. Likewise, you may not know what questions the SSA will ask you when you apply. The most important thing you can do is begin your application. You can… Read More »
HOW TO APPEAL A DENIAL OF DISABILITY FROM THE SSA
APPEAL YOUR SSA DENIAL Are you wondering how to appeal a denial from the SSA? Is this what happened? You applied for benefits and you received a denial of your application in the mail. Now, you are wondering how to appeal. The first thing to realize is that you should not give up. You… Read More »
SSD BENEFITS FOR BRONCHIECTASIS
WHAT IS BRONCHIECTASIS? Bronchiectasis is a condition that occurs when the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs get damaged, causing them to widen and become loose and scarred. These tubes are called airways. Bronchiectasis usually results from an infection or other condition that injures the walls of your airways or… Read More »
DEPRESSION CAN QUALIFY YOUR FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS
DEPRESSION CAN QUALIFY YOU FOR SSD BENEFITS If you have depression, you need to know if you qualify for SSD benefits. If you have been off work for over 12 months or you think you will be, then should you apply for SSD and SSI benefits? Depression is a common mental ailment that most… Read More »
FIBROMYALGIA AND DISABILITY BENEFITS
SSD BENEFITS AND FIBROMYALGIA Fibromyalgia is a medical condition for which the Social Security Administration will pay disability 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 »
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR RETROACTIVE SSD BENEFITS?
THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF DISABILITY BENEFITS – SSDI & SSI BENEFITS Retroactive SSDI benefits may be available to you. However, it depends on what kind of benefits you are seeking. There are two kinds of Social Security benefits that one can apply for. The first benefit is Social Security Disability or Title II…. Read More »
ALCOHOLISM, DRUGS, AND DISABILITY
CAN YOU RECEIVE SSD BENEFITS IF YOU ARE AN ALCOHOLIC OR DRUG ADDICT? Alcoholism and drug addiction are problems for many people. These addictions can result in mental or physical disability, but it can be difficult to win benefits unless you quit drinking or using drugs. To apply for Social Security benefits, go to… 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 »
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 or not 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… 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 have appeared at 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…. Read More »
