The waiting period for individuals to receive a Social Security disability hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) has significantly increased over recent years. In Illinois, Social Security disability lawyers often see individuals wait a frustrating 17.2 months before they see a judge. Fortunately for some people, that waiting time can be significantly reduced under […]

When a disabled person passes away, it is sometimes possible for certain family members to file a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim, or pursue one that has already been started on behalf of the individual. Federal law regulates who may file or continue such claims, and which disability programs […]

The Illinois U.S. attorney’s office recently accused ten Chicago area residents of stealing more than $1.2 million in combined Social Security benefits. In each Social Security Chicago fraud case, individuals received heavy fines and prison sentences for their crimes. Prosecutors involved in the fraud cases stated that six of the defendants used false identities to […]

The decision of whether an individual is considered eligible for SSDI is based upon whether the applicant meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict criteria. The problem is that two-thirds of disability applications are rejected on the first filing. With many Americans living from paycheck-to-paycheck, any delay in being approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can […]