Special Needs Trust FAQ
Wondering why special needs trusts are so important and how they work? Want to know how to set up a special needs trust for disabled adults or children? We’ve got answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
What You Should Know About Lymphedema and Social Security Disability Benefits
Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling in one or more parts of the body, usually the arm(s) and/or leg(s). Lymphedema can range in intensity from mild to severe. But is it severe enough to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits? Here’s what you should know about lymphedema and SSD benefits before you apply. Watch our video.
Working Seasonally and Applying for SSD Benefits
A lot of people take seasonal jobs. Workers of various ages and abilities can earn extra money, get job experience or turn a temp job into a permanent position. If you are currently on SSD benefits, you need to be careful about taking a seasonal position. Watch our video to learn more.
Signs That You Will Be Approved for Disability
Although no attorney can guarantee that the SSA will approve your application for social security disability benefits, some factors push the odds of approval in your favor.
Explaining Work History on Your SSD Application for Benefits
One way the SSA evaluates whether your disability prevents you from working is by conducting a thorough examination of your work history. You submit work history information on the Work History Report. Here’s what the SSA is looking for, and how to complete the form to improve the chance your disability application is approved.
The Importance of a Medical Source Statement to Your Social Security Disability Claim
A patient’s medical file is filled with labs, X-rays, MRIs, statements of diagnosis, treatment plans, detailed notes and a dozen other documents, all which support your medical condition and prove that you are disabled. So why does an attorney need a medical source statement to support your Social Security Disability (SSD) application? Watch our video to learn more.
What Are the Social Security Disability Criteria for Benefits
Like all benefits programs, the SSDI program has certain criteria applicants must meet to be eligible for monthly disability benefits. This post covers requirements and eligibility for SSI, SSD and Disabling Conditions.
Social Security Disability and Mental Health Disorders
The application process for SSD benefits is not easy. It is estimated that less than 40% of all SSD applications are approved. Furthermore, the application process is a lengthy one. For mental health disorders, investigators will likely be even more selective. Therefore, people should consider meeting with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney to prevent unnecessary problems from occurring.
Should You Receive SSD Benefits, Early Retirement, or Both?
The main difference between social security disability insurance and social security retirement is simple. With Social Security disability insurance, you have to prove that you’re disabled. Social Security retirement, however, is based on age. We typically advise our clients not to work unless they plan to work full-time because you will lose your benefits if you exceed a certain amount of earnings. You can start receiving retirement benefits at 62, but there is a deduction if you start claiming them before 67. To learn more, watch our short videos.
Retirement and Social Security Disability
Whether you can receive retirement and SSDI benefits depends on what you mean by “retirement”. For SSDI purposes, retirement means benefits paid through the SSA. Yet Social Security retirement benefits are not always the only benefit people receive when they retire. Pensions or 401(k) plans through an employer also pay benefits at retirement. While many people generically refer to each of these as “retirement” benefits, for purposes of receiving both SSDI and retirement benefits, they are very different.
