Why Trump’s Hiring Freeze May Extend SSDI Case Backlog

President Trump’s federal hiring freeze may lengthen the social security disability appeals backlog, which is already overloaded. Currently, the caseloads have grown so large that many cases do not get to their hearings for more than a year. The average wait time is currently 526 days, leaving applicants who are desperate waiting for lengthy periods […]

Are Immigrants Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Under certain conditions, immigrants who are not U.S. citizens may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. An attorney Social Security disability can explain eligibility requirements for Illinois immigrants who do not have U.S. citizenship status. Social Security Eligibility for Immigrants People who immigrate to the United States from other countries may be eligible for […]

Understanding the Duration Requirement of Social Security Disability

To receive either Supplementary Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), an applicant must meet the duration requirement of a physical or mental impairment preventing him or her from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) that will either result in death, have lasted at least 12 months, or can be expected to last at […]

Garnishments Can Reduce SSDI Benefits

The federal government can garnish up to 15% of SSDI benefits in order to collect back taxes, owed child support, or defaulted student loans. However, it is not possible for bill collectors to garnish SSDI benefits. Options to Stop Student Loan Garnishment Individuals may file for a total and permanent disability discharge for defaulted student […]

How to Document & Prove a Disability

SSA requires applicants to show evidence that proves a disability exists and that the disability is impacting the person’s ability to work and earn income. Moreover, individuals must provide documents that establish their eligibility for SSDI benefits. Because this documentation can take time to compile it is best to gather and prepare it without delay. […]

Do SSDI Recipients Owe Taxes For Their Lump Sum and Monthly Benefits?

When Chicagoans are approved for SSDI and receive lump sums for back and retroactive disability benefits, it is important for them to understand how to report their lump sums on their tax returns. If they fail to report their lump sum payments correctly, they may owe substantially larger amounts than if they might otherwise. The […]

Update on Social Security Changes in 2017

Social Security benefits undergo an update every year based on inflation and changes to the Consumer Price Index. Usually, the benefits increase, however, in the event of deflation (which is an increase in the value of currency), then it is possible for benefits to reduce. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for calculating these […]

What If My Social Security Disability is Denied?

Due to strict reporting requirements for medical proof of disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies a large amount of initial claims that are submitted. When a claim is denied in Illinois, a social security claims Chicago attorney can file an appeal to have the claim reheard in a hearing or court review Qualifying for […]

How are SSDI Benefits Calculated?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is part of the Social Security retirement program, but it’s for workers who become disabled before they reach retirement age. Only workers who have paid Social Security (FICA) taxes for many years are insured by the SSDI program. Calculating Social Security Disability Payments The amount of money paid for SSDI […]

Some Disability Laws Include Food Allergy Provisions

The Americans with Disabilities Act includes certain provisions that provide protection for those with food allergies. Though certain accommodations are not required by all businesses and public facilities, keeping individuals safe while allowing them to participate in activities, particularly educational opportunities, is required as part of the law. Allergies and the ADA The ADA protects […]