Expedited Processing for Certain Disability Claims

The processing time for social security disability claims can be very lengthy, sometimes lasting up to two years before a final decision is reached. Fortunately, many individuals with serious “critical cases” may be able to pursue expedited processing for their disability claims. In 2014, nearly 40 million individuals in the United States reported at least one disability. […]

How Social Security Changes Affect Recipients

In November 2015, legislators in Washington voted to change the way Americans can collect their social security benefits. These changes have now gone into effect and will affect everyone who files for their benefits from now onwards. File and Suspend no Longer Possible One of the most important changes is that recipients can no longer file […]

New Bill Proposed to Phase-In Social Security Payments for Those With Terminal Illnesses

The process of applying for Social Security benefits can take a great deal of time, which is why a new bill has been proposed to help those with terminal illnesses get their benefits quicker. This legislation was introduced by Rep. Rodney Davis. Waiting for Social Security Benefits Many who apply for Social Security benefits deal […]

Ticket To Work Program

The Ticket to Work program is a voluntary program that assists Social Security beneficiaries with entering, rejoining or staying in the workforce. This program allows recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) the opportunity to become financially independent and obtain a job that could turn into a career. Ticket to […]

Applying for SSDI Benefits for a Disabled Child

Raising a child with cognitive or physical disabilities often includes additional expenses that put an undue burden on families. The Social Security system has mechanisms that can help, including Supplemental Security Income. Applying for SSI is an involved process. With assistance from a Chicago social security lawyer, applying can be less stressful. What is SSI? […]

Social Security Disability Covers Cancer & Blood Disorders

Social Security Disability Insurance is evolving. It now covers cancer and blood disorders which means that if these conditions take you out of the workforce, you can receive compensation until the condition has passed. Hematological Disorders Social Security Disability Insurance now includes hematological disorders as a disabling condition. They will evaluate non-malignant hematological disorders including thrombosis, hematosis, bone marrow […]

Social Security Disability Claims Expedited for Veterans

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has taken steps to expedite social security disability claims for veterans. The expedited process is used for military service members who become disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs. Expedited claims for veterans are being processed to help ease unnecessary […]

Congress Talks SSDI Reform…Again

SSDI benefits would continue through 2016. It also halted a planned 20% benefits cut affecting Social Security claims Chicago and across the country. The last-minute save brought renewed demands for SSDI reforms. New SSDI Reforms are Already on the Books Congress talks a lot about SSDI reform. It’s no surprise that they used December’s must-pass budget bill as an […]

Non-Medical Evidence Can Impact Your SSD Claim

While medical evidence is the cornerstone for deciding social security disability cases, other evidence, which is not related to the claimant’s physical or mental health, is considered as well. This non-medical evidence can have a significant impact on a disabled person’s claim. Non-medical criteria include things like age, work credits, work and education history, current […]

What is Substantial Gainful Activity in Social Security Disability Cases?

As individuals proceed through the Social Security Disability application process, they are almost certain to come across the term Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). To those who are first time filers, this term is likely unfamiliar. It does, however, have a significant bearing on any Social Security Disability claim. In order to be eligible to receive […]