Tag Archives: ssi benefits
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 »
FIVE COMMON LEARNING DISABILITIES
WHAT IS A LEARNING DISABILITY? A learning disability is a brain based condition that affects how you use and understand information. It changes how the brain processes things like words, sounds, or numbers. Each person with a learning disability is different. For example, a person can have a learning disability in reading, writing, listening,… Read More »
SJOGREN’S SYNDROME BENEFITS
WHAT IS SJOGREN’S SYNDROME? Sjögren’s syndrome is an immune disorder of the exocrine glands. It is named after Swedish doctor Henrik Sjögren who first described it in 1933. The autoimmune disorder occurs when there is dysfunction of certain glands, mostly the salivary and lacrimal glands. This condition affects the body’s moisture producing glands. Therefore,… Read More »
HOW TO FILE A REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION
DID THE SSA DENY YOUR APPLICATION FOR SSDI & SSI BENEFITS? Request reconsideration on 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 to… Read More »
HEADACHE DISORDERS & WINNING SSD BENEFITS
Primary headache disorders can be some of the most disabling medical conditions the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews. Migraines, cluster headaches, and other primary headache disorders can cause severe pain, nausea, and vision problems. Obviously, these symptoms create an inability to function in daily life. Additionally, the same headache disorders can make it impossible… Read More »
SAME SEX MARRIAGE & SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS
THE SSA RECOGNIZES SAME SEX MARRIAGES Same sex marriage is now recognized by the SSA. On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, holding that same sex couples have a constitutional right to marry in all states. Also, they have the right to have their marriage recognized… Read More »
SSI BENEFITS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
WHAT ARE SSI BENEFITS? SSI benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income program funded by general taxes. SSI benefits do not come from Social Security taxes. The goal of the SSI program is to provide a monthly payment that helps disabled people, those who are blind, and who also have little… 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 »
INSOMNIA MATTERS IN YOUR SSD CLAIM
WHAT IS INSOMNIA? When people think about Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, they often picture obvious physical limitations or mental conditions. What many don’t realize is that often insomnia and chronic sleep problems play a significant role in a successful disability claim. This is especially true when insomnia is a symptom of an underlying… Read More »
DISABILITY APPLICATION: TIPS FOR SUCCESS
HOW TO FILL OUT YOUR DISABILITY APPLICATION Filling out a Social Security disability application is one of the most important steps you can take when your medical condition prevents you from working. Unfortunately, most people don’t know how to do it. Many people assume the process is simple. After they start the application, they… Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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.
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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.
THE HIDDEN COSTS OF SSA’S DELAYS
WHAT ARE THE HIDDEN COSTS OF SSA’S DELAYS? SSA delays can have a number of hidden costs. Most of these delays impact the person who is filing for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. First, it isn’t an easy decision. People often wait too long to file for… 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 »
PULMONARY FIBROSIS & SSD BENEFITS
PULMONARY FIBROSIS AND SSD BENEFITS Pulmonary fibrosis is a serious, progressive lung disease that can make it impossible to continue working. Many people with pulmonary fibrosis struggle with breathing, chronic fatigue, and reduced lung function. Over time, even simple daily activities, like walking across the room or climbing a flight of stairs, become difficult…. 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 »
HEPATITIS & DISABILITY
WHAT IS HEPATITIS? Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, it can be caused by viral infections, alcohol abuse, exposure to toxins, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications. The most common types of hepatitis are A, B, and C. However, there are other types… Read More »
PLEURAL CANCER & SSD BENEFITS
WHAT IS PLEURAL CANCER? Pleural cancer or cancer of the pleura is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. The pleura is a thin, protective membrane that covers the lungs and lines the inside of the chest cavity. The main cause of pleural cancer is exposure to asbestos, a… Read More »
