For the second year in a row, the SSA will offer no cost-of-living adjustment
for Social Security and SSI beneficiaries in 2011. The COLA is determined by comparing the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) from the third quarter of 2008, the last year that a COLA was determined, to the third quarter of 2010. As there was no increase in that period (unlike the change from 2008 to 2009, which
was 5.8 percent, the largest increase since 1982), the SSA declined to grant a cost of living increase.
Showing posts with label social security administration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label social security administration. Show all posts
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
If You Are Denied Social Security Benefits
If you are denied Social Security benefits, it isn’t the end of the world. The Social Security application process has several stages of appeal, any of which can overturn the initial decision and give you the benefits to which you are entitled.
The vast majority of applications for Social Security disability will be denied. Even if you have a strong case, the Social Security Administration may deny your claim if you don't prove your disability under the Social Administration guidelines.
Over 60% of claims are denied at the Initial stage. The Social Security Administration allows you 60 days to appeal this decision. If you decide to appeal, your claim enters the Reconsideration stage.
The Social Security Administration rejects over 80% of Reconsideration applications. If you choose to appeal again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The Hearing stage often times represents your best chance of obtaining disability benefits, and it is important to prepare properly. Having a competent disability advocate or Social Security attorney can significantly increase your chances of being approved at this third stage.
If the Social Security Administration has denied your claim for Social Security disability and you would like to appeal, or if you have any questions or concerns regarding your benefits, please contact us for a consultation at 803-929-0577. We offer in office and phone consultations when needed.
The vast majority of applications for Social Security disability will be denied. Even if you have a strong case, the Social Security Administration may deny your claim if you don't prove your disability under the Social Administration guidelines.
Over 60% of claims are denied at the Initial stage. The Social Security Administration allows you 60 days to appeal this decision. If you decide to appeal, your claim enters the Reconsideration stage.
The Social Security Administration rejects over 80% of Reconsideration applications. If you choose to appeal again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The Hearing stage often times represents your best chance of obtaining disability benefits, and it is important to prepare properly. Having a competent disability advocate or Social Security attorney can significantly increase your chances of being approved at this third stage.
If the Social Security Administration has denied your claim for Social Security disability and you would like to appeal, or if you have any questions or concerns regarding your benefits, please contact us for a consultation at 803-929-0577. We offer in office and phone consultations when needed.
Friday, September 17, 2010
When Do Do You Need a Lawyer For Social Security Disability?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a government program that aims to provide a portion of income and medical coverage to disabled children and disabled adults. It grants financial aid to individuals with inadequate means to attain an income on their own, and consequently have meager financial support, or none at all.
This money is given out so that those who meet the income guidelines can provide for their basic necessities such as shelter, clothing, and food.Both children and adults are eligible for social security disability and supplemental security income assistance, granted they meet the necessary requirements to do so.
If you have ever attempted to become a beneficiary of SSI, then you are most likely sensitive to the fact that it can be a time consuming and arduous endeavor. Often times the preliminary application process will be a failure. But applying for SSI can be easier and less confusing. With the help of a an experienced and knowledgeable social security disability attorney, you can rest assured that someone is fighting in your corner to get you the benefits that you deserve, and if your application has been denied a reliable social security disability lawyer can help in your appeals process.
Applying for, or appealing the denial of, social security disability benefits can be an intensely aggravating process, especially when it is for a child. So a lawyer can prove very beneficial in expediting the process. Living with a disability can be hard as it is, you shouldn’t have to go through the tormenting experience of proving to the government that you are disabled. A social security disability attorney can help you in a number of aspects of applying or appealing.
Including:
* Analyzing your case and cross referencing it with state regulation
* Offering peace of mind
* Consulting primary physicians and other doctors for medical information and exam results
* Gather medical evidence
* Preparing witnesses to testify
* Taking care of telephone calls, legwork, and paperwork
There are a whole host of other reasons for consulting with a social security disability lawyer that can prove advantageous for your unique situation. It is important to know that you don’t have to be alone when dealing with such crucial matters concerning your livelihood.
This money is given out so that those who meet the income guidelines can provide for their basic necessities such as shelter, clothing, and food.Both children and adults are eligible for social security disability and supplemental security income assistance, granted they meet the necessary requirements to do so.
If you have ever attempted to become a beneficiary of SSI, then you are most likely sensitive to the fact that it can be a time consuming and arduous endeavor. Often times the preliminary application process will be a failure. But applying for SSI can be easier and less confusing. With the help of a an experienced and knowledgeable social security disability attorney, you can rest assured that someone is fighting in your corner to get you the benefits that you deserve, and if your application has been denied a reliable social security disability lawyer can help in your appeals process.
Applying for, or appealing the denial of, social security disability benefits can be an intensely aggravating process, especially when it is for a child. So a lawyer can prove very beneficial in expediting the process. Living with a disability can be hard as it is, you shouldn’t have to go through the tormenting experience of proving to the government that you are disabled. A social security disability attorney can help you in a number of aspects of applying or appealing.
Including:
* Analyzing your case and cross referencing it with state regulation
* Offering peace of mind
* Consulting primary physicians and other doctors for medical information and exam results
* Gather medical evidence
* Preparing witnesses to testify
* Taking care of telephone calls, legwork, and paperwork
There are a whole host of other reasons for consulting with a social security disability lawyer that can prove advantageous for your unique situation. It is important to know that you don’t have to be alone when dealing with such crucial matters concerning your livelihood.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
3 Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming for Disability Benefits
When filing for claims based on disability, it is easy to get overwhelmed. Here are 3 potential mistakes people usually make and how to avoid them.
a. Not Specifying Mental Illnesses in the Application
Applications for social security disability or SSD are evaluated on both mental as well as physical grounds. Both physical and mental conditions are evaluated in a very similar manner. If a claimant has a mental impairment, this needs to be included in the application. Sometimes, the presence of a severe mental disability coupled with a mild physical disability can be sufficient to help the applicant qualify for such disability benefits, independently or in support of a physical impairment. Cases of mental illness, such as depression, post traumatic stress, bi polar disorder and schizophrenia such be included when filing a claim.
b. Assumption that Disability Lawyers are Expensive
These days, it is easy to hire a social security disability lawyer and they get paid only once the case has been won. Therefore, anyone can afford the services of such lawyers. Most attorneys will only collect a fee if you get approved for your benefits. Disability lawyers can help you sort through the rules, laws and other guidelines to help you get approved for benefits.
c. Not Preparing for SSD Hearing
Not arriving to the hearing location at the right time can mean rescheduling of the case several months later! Not familiarizing oneself with one’s own claim file and providing a thorough record of medical history and supporting documentation can be a huge mistake for those without representation. However, claimants with access to social security disability lawyer services need not worry about this clause because the lawyer reviews and handles all aspects of the claim.
a. Not Specifying Mental Illnesses in the Application
Applications for social security disability or SSD are evaluated on both mental as well as physical grounds. Both physical and mental conditions are evaluated in a very similar manner. If a claimant has a mental impairment, this needs to be included in the application. Sometimes, the presence of a severe mental disability coupled with a mild physical disability can be sufficient to help the applicant qualify for such disability benefits, independently or in support of a physical impairment. Cases of mental illness, such as depression, post traumatic stress, bi polar disorder and schizophrenia such be included when filing a claim.
b. Assumption that Disability Lawyers are Expensive
These days, it is easy to hire a social security disability lawyer and they get paid only once the case has been won. Therefore, anyone can afford the services of such lawyers. Most attorneys will only collect a fee if you get approved for your benefits. Disability lawyers can help you sort through the rules, laws and other guidelines to help you get approved for benefits.
c. Not Preparing for SSD Hearing
Not arriving to the hearing location at the right time can mean rescheduling of the case several months later! Not familiarizing oneself with one’s own claim file and providing a thorough record of medical history and supporting documentation can be a huge mistake for those without representation. However, claimants with access to social security disability lawyer services need not worry about this clause because the lawyer reviews and handles all aspects of the claim.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Can you Increase your Social Security Payment?
Here's an interesting article that describes 5 ways to increase your payment from Social Security.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
President's Plan to Help Social Security
What do you think of the President's proposal to help Social Security and extend the life of the program? The president recently suggested an adjustment on taxed earnings. Any thoughts or comments?
Friday, February 19, 2010
Social Security - Is the System Broken?
Many Americans are concerned about the future of Social Security and how long the money will last. Are you concerned about a deficit?
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Social Security Payments
The Social Security Administration provides regular statements which estimate the amounts that individuals should receive for Social Security Retirement, Disability, Dependents, etc.
If you need to get a copy of your most recent statement, click here.
If you need to get a copy of your most recent statement, click here.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Disability Mystery
Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance in the form of monthly compensation to workers who can no longer work due to an injury, medical condition, etc.
Requirements
When applying for disability benefits, the following information is necessary when you initially contact the Social Security Administration. You may apply in person, on line or by phone.
1. Original copy of birth certificate or any valid document of applicant’s age
2. Social Security Number
3. Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all medical care providers, hospitals, etc. that provided services relevant to your injury or medical condition
4. List of jobs and companies done in the past
5. Proof of income (W-2 from employer or federal tax returns if self employed)
These documents are used by the SSA to determine whether you have earned enough work credits to qualify for benefits. If you have, then they can determine if you meet the legal definition of disabled to actually get the disability benefits.
A group of individuals from the State’s Disability Determination Services made up of a health care specialist and expert disability will evaluate the information provided. To determine if an applicant is disabled, they will consider the following:
1. Whether the applicant’s injury or medical condition prevents “substantial gainful activities” or employment
2. Whether the applicant’s injury or medical condition is included on a list of impairments developed by the SSA and listed on their website (www.ssa.gov) If not, they will consider the severity of the existing injury(s) or medical condition(s)
3. Whether the applicant is currently working
4. Whether the applicant can perform similar jobs that he/she previously had for the last 15 years or has transferable skills to do other types of employment
Most applicants will be denied benefits when they first apply. It could be for a number of reasons.
To resolve these issues, applicants should consult an attorney. Most attorneys offer a free consultation regarding Social Security Disability.
Requirements
When applying for disability benefits, the following information is necessary when you initially contact the Social Security Administration. You may apply in person, on line or by phone.
1. Original copy of birth certificate or any valid document of applicant’s age
2. Social Security Number
3. Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all medical care providers, hospitals, etc. that provided services relevant to your injury or medical condition
4. List of jobs and companies done in the past
5. Proof of income (W-2 from employer or federal tax returns if self employed)
These documents are used by the SSA to determine whether you have earned enough work credits to qualify for benefits. If you have, then they can determine if you meet the legal definition of disabled to actually get the disability benefits.
A group of individuals from the State’s Disability Determination Services made up of a health care specialist and expert disability will evaluate the information provided. To determine if an applicant is disabled, they will consider the following:
1. Whether the applicant’s injury or medical condition prevents “substantial gainful activities” or employment
2. Whether the applicant’s injury or medical condition is included on a list of impairments developed by the SSA and listed on their website (www.ssa.gov) If not, they will consider the severity of the existing injury(s) or medical condition(s)
3. Whether the applicant is currently working
4. Whether the applicant can perform similar jobs that he/she previously had for the last 15 years or has transferable skills to do other types of employment
Most applicants will be denied benefits when they first apply. It could be for a number of reasons.
To resolve these issues, applicants should consult an attorney. Most attorneys offer a free consultation regarding Social Security Disability.
Monday, September 1, 2008
How to Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits
The biggest concern that any body who is applying for Social Security Disability benefits is how to qualify. In general to qualify for benefits, you must first have worked in job for a sufficient time to be eligible for benefits, and you second must show that you suffer from a medical condition or injury that prevents you from working for a minimum of one year. To determine if your employment is sufficient to qualify you for benefits, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. Your work history can be evaluated to determine if you may qualify for disability benefits.
An attorney can also help you obtain and evaluate your medical records to evaluate the seriousness of your medical condition or injury in terms of qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits. As an attorney, I often I find that many people may have a condition sufficient to qualify for benefits, but their medical records don't sufficiently document all of the the concerns or complaints. It is possible to address multiple medical problems with your doctor during your appointment, which are not documented in the medical file. Anyone who has applied for disability can tell you that the medical records are extremely important in proving disability. They are even more important when trying to prove the start of the disability, which determines how far back the Social Security Administration will pay benefits.
Because this is such an important part of the process, we will assist you in trying to obtain the necessary medical documentation to help win you case, prepare you for each step of the process, and handle every aspect of the process.
An attorney can also help you obtain and evaluate your medical records to evaluate the seriousness of your medical condition or injury in terms of qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits. As an attorney, I often I find that many people may have a condition sufficient to qualify for benefits, but their medical records don't sufficiently document all of the the concerns or complaints. It is possible to address multiple medical problems with your doctor during your appointment, which are not documented in the medical file. Anyone who has applied for disability can tell you that the medical records are extremely important in proving disability. They are even more important when trying to prove the start of the disability, which determines how far back the Social Security Administration will pay benefits.
Because this is such an important part of the process, we will assist you in trying to obtain the necessary medical documentation to help win you case, prepare you for each step of the process, and handle every aspect of the process.
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