brwn2685-wpsoc3v17v91goei-redesign

LEGAL TROUBLES AND ELIGIBILITY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS

Fri, 01 Jun 2018 13:36:31 GMT

Social Security Disability benefits, or SSD, help individuals with debilitating conditions or injuries obtain necessary medical care and maintain their quality of life. However, many factors can affect an individual's current eligibility for SSD.

One factor that is virtually guaranteed to disqualify new applicants, reduce benefit amounts, or stop current benefits is legal trouble. While misdemeanor charges or convictions are less likely to impact your eligibility, felony proceedings almost certainly will.

In this blog, we discuss how legal issues can affect Social Security Administration, or SSA, decisions about benefits.

Criminal Actions That Indicate Drug Addiction or Alcoholism

Disabilities that result from drug or alcohol addiction, shortened to DAA, are not eligible for SSD. The SSA must determine that you would still be disabled without substance abuse and are committed to ending or have ended your DAA.

To make this determination, the SSA looks for indicators in your personal history, including your criminal record. If you have numerous DUIs or drunken disorderly incidents, your application could be denied due to DAA.

Incarceration

As summarized in our previous blog, " Why Your Disability Payments Could End, " if you receive a prison or criminal mental institution sentence, your disability benefits may stop while you remain incarcerated. This cessation of your benefits would include those SSD benefits issued to your loved ones that are directly attached to your SSD status.

Part of the reason incarcerated individuals tend to be disqualified from receiving benefits is that they cannot pay into Social Security and are therefore not part of the program until after their release.

However, the exact circumstances can factor into the continuance of your benefits. For example, if you participate in a rehabilitation program expected to result in an occupation after your sentence and you have a sentence less than one year, your benefits may continue.

Injury During the Commission of a Crime

You cannot receive benefits for injuries sustained during the commission of a felony crime that you were convicted of. You can never use these injuries or the worsening thereof in an SSD application, even after you complete your sentence.

Injury During Incarceration

Similar to injuries sustained during criminal activity, the SSA does not grant benefits for any injury that occurs during incarceration or is exacerbated by incarceration while the applicant is serving out a sentence. However, unlike injuries sustained during a felony act, you may be able to apply for disability benefits after your release.

Outstanding Warrant or Evasion of a Warrant

During the application process, you must be readily available for examinations and must have no outstanding warrants. If you have had a warrant issued against you before or while your application is considered and you do not turn yourself in, the SSA will deny your application.

Additionally, anyone evading arrest cannot qualify for new SSD benefits or continue to receive current SSD benefits.

While criminal charges or convictions will most likely have some effect on your SSD eligibility, you should still speak to an experienced Social Security attorney about your options. Legal troubles needn't keep you from ever receiving benefits.

For example, in some cases, the SSA grants applicants disability that comes without benefits. While this period of disability does not provide cash benefits, it locks your current financial and medical information in place so you can receive the same amount of benefits you would currently be eligible for after your legal troubles resolve.

Schedule a consultation with an attorney to determine what SSD benefits you may be able to apply for now as well as in the future.

For expert Social Security legal advice, trust the team at Green Disability Law.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

WHEN YOUR LIFE CHANGES, NOTIFY THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 13:57:54 GMT

When you receive social security benefits, there are certain life changes that can affect how much you receive. Here are a few of these changes.

Securing social security benefits is a process that extends far beyond the application stage. Even after an applicant has been approved for benefits and has started to receive their payments, there are still certain guidelines that must be followed if they want to continue to receive these payments, and these changes include more than changes to your income status and death.

If you are planning to file for social security benefits, or you or a loved one is currently receiving these benefits, make sure you know what life updates require you to communicate with the Social Security Administration or SSA.

Marriage

If there is a change in your marital status, you must notify the SSA. What, if any, change in your benefit is dependent on the type of payments you receive. For Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, payments, the amount of your benefit is based largely on your financial resources, including income and assets.

When you marry, a portion of your spouse's income is factored into this equation to determine your new entitlement. Consequently, your payment amount could decrease or bottom out. If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, payments based on your own status, it doesn't matter how much your spouse earns; your benefit amount will remain consistent.

However, if you receive SSDI payments based on someone else's status, such as a parent or ex-spouse, your benefits may be terminated. No matter how much your spouse makes or the type of payments you're receiving; it's always best to notify the Administration of this change.

New Child in the Home

If you bring a new child into the home and you have full, legal custody of the child, this is a noteworthy life change to update the SSA about for several different reasons. First, if you are currently receiving benefit payments, your child may also be eligible for their own payment.

Even if the child is not themselves disabled, a child under the age of 18, or no more than 19 years of age that is completing the 12th grade, may be entitled to benefit payments. This allowance is for natural and adopted children as well as stepchildren.

Second, if you adopt or gain custody of a child that currently receives benefits and you also receive benefits, this change will not result in a reduction of your benefits, but this is information you must relay to the SSA. As an added tip, any time a child who is receiving payments will be out of your care for an extended period, you also need to notify the SSA.

Additional Benefit Entitlement

If you receive certain additional benefits, you are also required to notify the SSA of these payments, as there are certain benefit payments that you cannot receive while receiving social security disability payments. Railroad retirement benefits are one of the payments you cannot receive in addition to social security disability.

You will need to choose one or the other, so it's best to speak with someone who is knowledgeable enough to help you make the appropriate selection. Workers' compensation also falls under this umbrella.

Since the two benefits are entirely different programs, one will likely not cancel out the other, but the receipt of workers' compensation may impact the amount of the social security benefits you receive.

According to the guideline, if the amount of these two payments combined equals more than 80% of your previous income, your social security payments will be reduced to bring your total compensation under this 80% threshold.

Failure to relay information about these major changes in your life could result in suspension of your payments, and in some instances, an overpayment penalty could be applied to you. If you have questions about updating these changes, Green Disability Law is here to help you.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

YOUR SSD HEARING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 14:11:40 GMT

When individuals apply for Social Security Disability benefits, they will have to go before an Administrative Law Judge for a decision. The judge will ask questions to the applicant to determine if he or she is eligible for benefits. In many cases, applicants are denied after the first, and often the second time they apply, so providing adequate information is vital.

When you go to the hearing, you will testify as to your need for SSD benefits and demonstrate that you are disabled according to the law. To best understand your situation, the judge will ask you about different components of your life, including your disability and your ability to make a living.

If an attorney is representing you in your case, he or she will ask you questions that will help the judge better understand your situation. An attorney is a great ally when you go before the judge as he or she will know what to ask so the judge will hear the appropriate information. The following are some categories of questions that you should be prepared to answer at your hearing.

Questions Detailing Your History and Lifestyle

The first category of questions will refer to your background and how you live day-to-day. You will be expected to discuss your education, your family, where and how you live, and your lifestyle. The judge may want to know about your life before you became disabled and how active you were then compared to now.

You should also be prepared to talk about how your disability affects your lifestyle today. If you suffer from chronic pain, for example, you may be asked to talk about that so that the judge can determine how much your disability will limit your ability to work at a typical job.

It is best that you fully disclose how your disability limits your ability to perform regular daily tasks. The judge will want to understand any limitations you have regarding the completion of things like doing your laundry, cooking meals, or taking care of your finances.

Your Past Work History

If you have a work history at all, you will need to be ready to discuss it thoroughly. You will talk about the functions of your past jobs, the duties and responsibilities you held, and all the physical demands of your work.

It may be necessary for you to recall the percentages of physical movement required by your jobs, such as how often you had to sit or stand, how much weight you were required to lift, how much you had to bend or stoop, and the like.

The Nature of Your Disability

The most important part of your testimony will be the disclosure of the disability. You will need to be prepared to provide a complete list of your doctors, how often you visit, and all prescription medications that you take or have taken. The judge will want to know whether or not the medications have alleviated the symptoms of your disability.

The judge will want to establish your credibility by ensuring that there is a consistency in your medical records. For instance, if there are large periods of time in between doctor visits, you will need to explain why you did not need medical attention for your disability during that gap.

There could be a number of reasons you can provide, such as lack of insurance or improved symptoms. Just be prepared in the event that you are asked about a gap in treatment.

The judge just wants to ensure that you have a disability that will prohibit you from holding a job to support yourself. If it appears that you have long periods of good health, he or she may not see the need for SSD benefits, as you will be expected to work during those times.

If you need assistance obtaining SSD benefits or need an attorney during your hearing, please contact Green Disability Law .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

WHY YOUR DISABILITY PAYMENTS COULD END | GREEN DISABILITY LAW

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 14:24:10 GMT

SSD payments can unexpectedly be cut off at any time if certain factors are not met. Here are six reasons why your benefits could be terminated.

Depending on your disability, your Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits should last for the length of time in which you are too disabled to work. For many people, SSD benefits continue for years to the rest of their lives. However, these payments can suddenly and unexpectedly be cut off at any time if certain factors are not met. Here are six reasons why your SSD benefits could immediately be terminated.

1. You Have Obtained Gainful Work

In many cases, you are allowed to both work and receive SSD benefits - but only up to a certain amount of time or earnings. There is a certain threshold of how much you can earn before you are placed in a trial work period.

A trial work period is a length of time where you can continue to work and not lose your benefits. After that time period ends, if you are still able to continue working and earning over the threshold, then you may no longer be considered disabled.

2. Your Medical Condition Has Improved

If the medical condition that disabled you improves, then you will likely stop receiving SSD benefits after certain criteria are met. The Social Security Administration does periodic reviews of all cases every three to seven years for most people - or yearly for those expected to improve.

If the SSA determines that you are able to work, then you will stop receiving benefits and have 60 days to appeal the determination.

3. You Were Institutionalized or Incarcerated

Your benefits will stop if you are incarcerated or have checked into an institution - such as a halfway house or assisted living facility. However, it depends on the type of facility, the reason for being there and whether or not you will be there long term.

You may still be eligible for benefits if you are going to be there for less than three months. With incarceration, you will need to reapply if you were in jail for a year. There are further restrictions on receiving benefits if you were convicted of a felony.

4. You Are Receiving Too Much Income

Even if you're not working, there is a chance that you can earn too much income. For example, if your spouse wasn't working when you started to get benefits but is now employed, then your household income may be too high.

Free food and housing is also considered income and can put you over the limit. Additionally, if the value of your assets rise, then you may go over the limit without even knowing about it.

5. You've Reached Retirement Age

You cannot receive SSD benefits and Social Security income at the same time, so your SSD benefits will stop once you've reach retirement age even if you are still disabled. However, it is likely that you will continue on with Social Security retirement income.

One thing that's good about this situation is that you will be less restricted when it comes to how much you can earn before it affects your benefits, so you may be able to increase your income.

6. The Beneficiary Died

If your household was receiving SSD benefits because of a disabled person who has recently passed on, then it's likely that you will no longer receive those benefits. However, if you are a spouse, elderly parent or child of the deceased or you are caring for their child, then you may be eligible for survivor's benefits. These benefits award a percentage of the deceased's benefit amount under certain conditions.

If you are disabled and unable to work, you shouldn't have to worry about unexpectedly losing your benefits because of a misunderstanding or change in circumstance. Because these benefits are critical to your survival, it's important that you have an attorney specializing in SSD and SSI. Contact Green Disability Law to schedule a consultation with a qualified attorney.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

OBTAINING SSDI FOR BIPOLAR DISORDER: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 14:28:44 GMT

If bipolar disorder prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security benefits. For more information call us at Green Disability Law.

Dealing with bipolar disorder can be very challenging for an individual, especially when trying to hold down a job. Bipolar disorder is a depressive state that causes periods of manic behavior, rapid speech, and can have an overall negative effect on one's ability to function normally during all periods of the day.

Bipolar disorder is considered a condition that may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). To qualify for these benefits, you cannot simply provide a doctor's diagnosis stating you have the condition. Instead, you will have to provide different forms of evidence to show that you are not able to work due because of the disorder.

The evidence that will show that you are unable to work will you may consist of various elements. The following is a list of the symptoms of bipolar disorder, some pieces of evidence that can be considered, along with some helpful information that may help increase your odds of getting an approval.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will often provide benefits for your disorder if you have the symptoms they have predetermined as the symptoms that qualify you for Social Security benefits. The administration will take note of your symptoms, along with your medical records, testing and evaluations to determine if you qualify.

Some of the symptoms that can prohibit your ability to work include speaking faster than normal, increased changes in thoughts or ideas and being easily distracted. Other symptoms of bipolar disorder include the inability to sleep, being intentionally involved in risky activities, having a falsely increased self-esteem and being easily agitated. If these symptoms affect your day-to-day life, or your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security benefits.

You will need to demonstrate that you are unable to do certain things and that your limitation is due to your disorder. For instance, you will need to show that you are unable to manage your day-to-day needs.

This can include not being able to finish tasks, the inability to understand instructions, the inability to interact with others socially or the inability to take care of yourself.

You can still qualify for benefits if you have been cared for by others, whether in a facility or through a structured environment created for you. You will have to show that you do not have the ability to adapt to any changes around you that are not already in your environment.

Time of Diagnosis

One consideration the administrators take into account is how long you have been suffering from bipolar disorder. You must have been unable to work consistently at a regular job for a specific period of time, which will be determined by the SSA.

If you are unable to hold down a job due to your bipolar disorder, you will need to show a pattern that demonstrates that your symptoms have prevented you from supporting yourself. If you earn more than $1,040 a month, you may be disqualified from Social Security disability benefits.

Your medical records can show varying levels of your illness and how you have either progressed or regressed. This record can help your case, so make sure your doctor frequently takes notes on your condition.

Even if your doctor believes you are improving, you can explain to the judge that you have good and bad days with the disorder. You will need to note how often the bad days are, one ideal way to keep track is keeping a daily journal where you can write your feelings from day to day. The longer you can keep the journal the better.

If you need assistance in getting SSDI benefits due to your bipolar disorder, contact the professional attorneys at Green Disability Law .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

EARN AN INCOME WHILE RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 14:31:32 GMT

Can you still earn an income while receiving social security disability benefits? Contact Green Disability Law to speak with one of our Lawyers today.

If you've recently been approved for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits after suffering a disabling illness or injury, you may be excited at the thought of once again generating an income, albeit likely a lesser one than you enjoyed during your working years.

While many may see SSD benefits as a permanent end to their career, others are anxious to jump back into the workforce once they've retrained for a new position or taken steps to improve the disabling condition. However, easing back into the working world can be tough, especially if you're worried about losing your benefits during this adjustment period.

Is it possible to work (and earn an income) while receiving SSD benefits? If so, what should you consider before embarking on this path? Read on to learn more about the trial period for working while receiving SSD benefits and how you may be able to transition to part- or full-time paid employment without jeopardizing your financial future.

The Trial Work Period

In an effort to encourage workers to try to return to full-time employment, the Social Security Administration has enacted a trial work period for SSD recipients. During this period, which can last up to nine non-consecutive months, you'll be permitted to earn an income without losing your monthly SSD benefits.

After you've spent nine months working and have earned an average of more than $1,170 per month (or $1,950 per month for blind individuals), you'll be deemed no longer disabled and your benefits will end.

On the other hand, if you're unable to average at least $1,170 per month in income while working full-time during your trial period, your trial period will end and your benefits will continue. You won't be penalized for the income you earned during this time or required to make any repayments to the Social Security Administration.

One of the major benefits of taking advantage of this trial work period is the ability to "fast-track" back into SSD if your disability worsens. If you do successfully return to work and cease collecting SSD benefits but are later disabled again, you won't need to go through the entire application and approval process; your benefits will simply be reinstated.

Advantages To Returning To Work

In addition to the obvious benefits that can come from working, like an increase in income, comprehensive health insurance, and a sense of purpose, there can be some additional financial advantages to returning to the workforce.

If you're receiving SSD benefits when you turn 62 (or otherwise hit early retirement age), your SSD benefits are automatically converted to Social Security retirement benefits. This means you won't be able to add to your Social Security benefit amount and will continue to receive only the reduced benefits granted under the Social Security Disability program.

On the other hand, if you return to work and don't claim Social Security retirement benefits until your full retirement age (or age 70), you'll be able to receive a much higher monthly Social Security benefit than would have been available through the disability program.

Another advantage can come from remaining proactive; continuing to receive SSD benefits once your condition has improved enough to allow you to return to work could set you up for a rude awakening when the Social Security Administration conducts its periodic review.

If you're no longer deemed totally disabled following an Administration audit, your benefits may stop with very little prior notice, leaving you high and dry while you search for a new job.

If you're contemplating a return to work, you'll want to speak with a Social Security Disability attorney to evaluate your options. Doing so can ensure you don't waive or otherwise give up any rights or benefits to which you're entitled.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

SECURING YOUR FUTURE BY PROTECTING YOUR BENEFITS - TIPS FOR APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 14:39:33 GMT

If you have a disability that's severe enough to impede your ability to work, it's important not to retreat into fear or frustration. Assistance is out there that can help get you through a difficult time, and the process of applying for that assistance may not be as complicated or intimidating as you think.

Though there are legal restrictions around applying for Social Security disability payments, they primarily exist in order to deter fraud. If you have a legitimate need for assistance, you should be confident that you won't be denied solely because you might be unfamiliar with all of the steps in the process.

Below, you'll find a guide to some suggestions that should help you navigate a Social Security disability application. Keeping these tips in mind should give you reassurance through your application, and should help guarantee that you feel like you've taken every step possible to secure your future.

Collect Your Medical Records

Ultimately, the determination in your disability claim will be made by examining the medical facts surrounding your disability. This examination may go back several years and take your full medical history into account, so it's important that you have a complete documentation of your history. Even events that you may assume are irrelevant could come up during the process, and you need to make sure that you're not taken by surprise.

Creating a comprehensive medical record for yourself is also a useful tool in explaining your situation to new doctors. Seeking out medical treatments that might alleviate your disability is a valuable use of your time, but those treatments may be difficult if a new doctor has a hard time finding all of the relevant information. Collecting it yourself can help expedite that process, and can be an efficient way for your doctor to quickly assess your symptoms and your needs.

Keep A Journal

While medical records provide an important historical examination of your condition, they may not adequately document your current concerns. The effects of a disability can change from day to day, and a major concern you had earlier this week may be replaced by a new one without any warning. Since it may not be practical to see a doctor that frequently, the best thing you can do is chart your own journey.

A journal can provide a contemporary record of your experiences that might offer important insight into the struggles of your daily life. It's important to be completely honest and forthright, including noting improvement if any occurs. It's also important to back up your journal and keep it stored somewhere safely, so you might benefit from writing electronically and using standard data security practices in order to make sure your records are protected.

Communicate With Your Attorney

It's essential to remember that you don't have to go through your disability claim alone. If you feel overwhelmed by the process or are confused by changes in requests from the government, reaching out to an experienced lawyer can be a great way to make sure you get the outcome you deserve.

Once you reach out, stay in open and honest communication. Your lawyer is there to help you, and you can be sure that you'll receive the privacy and respect necessary to develop enough trust to get you through the claims process.

Kevin T. Green LLC can help you understand your claim and secure a disability decision that will provide the support you need. Instead of convincing yourself that things are hopeless, look up for the light at the end of the tunnel. Professional legal assistance can be that light, and it can guide you safely to where you need to be.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY HEARING

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 14:46:55 GMT

Green Disability Law in Foley offers advice on what to expect from an SSI hearing.

If you have applied for Social Security Disability payments and have to go through a hearing, it can be overwhelming to wonder what will happen at your hearing. Social Security hearings are typically less ceremonious than many other legal proceedings. Be prepared for the judge to ask you to describe the following:

General Personal Details

From where you live to where you went to school, these questions are just trying to help get a sense of your background. Discuss your current living situation and any other general details that help explain where you are coming from.

Health Information

Explain the health issues that are leading you to apply for disability pay. Be prepared to discuss which body parts are involved, who your doctors are and often you need appointments and your pain levels.

Day to Day Schedule

The judge could ask about housework, if you are able to leave the house alone, and if you cook for yourself. As you describe your typical schedule, make it clear how your disability restricts what you can do without overstating or lying about limitations you may have.

Work History

Describe your previous jobs and explain your role, responsibilities and whether or not it was physical. You will have to go back up to 15 years from the date your disability began.

If you make sure you are ready to answer these questions, your hearing should not be a stressful event. To learn more about the types of questions a judge will ask you at your hearing, contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

THREE COMMON MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN THEY APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:53:32 GMT

Green Disability Law in Foley can help you if you are struggling to apply for your Social Security benefits.

Applying for Social Security benefits can be stressful and frustrating if you do not understand how the process works. The fact is that the majority of people who do file an application are found to be ineligible. You should educate yourself about the criteria before you apply to improve your chance of having your claim allowed. Here are three common mistakes to avoid when you apply for Social Security benefits.

Are you still working

Social Security Disability provides benefits for people whose impairments render them unable to work. If you are actively employed, even part-time, you may not be demonstrating how your disability limits you.

Have you seen a doctor

Disability applications require medical evidence to prove you have an impairment. If you have not received medical treatment for your condition, you may have a difficult time showing that you are disabled.

Is your disability permanent

In order for you to qualify medically for Social Security Disability, your condition should be expected to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be permanent. The Social Security program does not cover short-term disabling conditions.

You can seek assistance to help you navigate this often-confusing government system. For more information about applying for Social Security Disability benefits, contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

IMPORTANT FACTORS TO UNDERSTAND ABOUT UPCOMING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 15:08:16 GMT

Green Disability Law in Foley keeps clients informed about the changes that may be occurring in upcoming SSI and SSDI benefits.

A big portion of the Social Security fund goes to individuals who have sustained disabilities. However, 11 million people are at risk of losing those benefits due to the fund running low and Congress failing to replenish it. This is a very volatile time for Social Security benefits , and if you require assistance navigating this field, it might be prudent to hire a SSDI lawyer to help you.

Why Is the Fund Running Low?

A primary reason why Social Security is unable to provide the same kind of benefits it used to is simply the fact that more people are entering the workforce. Baby boomers are retiring in greater numbers than in decades past. Therefore, the same amount of money needs to be dispersed to a larger group of people. Additionally, the increase of women in the workforce only increases the pool of people who can sustain injuries in the workplace and would qualify for SSDI benefits.

How Much Are People Getting?

On an average, people who can utilize the benefits are getting about $14,000 a year from SSDI. Unfortunately, many people earn as much as three times that in a year. This severely impacts a person’s quality of life.

This is a tricky legal field, and the law is constantly changing and undergoing renovations. To learn more about it, contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 and schedule a consultation with an attorney familiar with the field.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

APPLYING FOR SSDI IN ALABAMA

Mon, 26 Sep 2016 15:15:18 GMT

Green Disability Law in Foley offers great advice for people looking to apply for SSDI and can help represent them if needed.

Applying for disability is different in different states. It is important to know this so that it is possible to find accurate information.

SSDI is not SSI

SSI and SSDI are completely separate programs run by the government with different methods of payment for recipients. SSI is given to those who lack sufficient work history for SSDI. While qualification for SSI means a set amount of payout, the payout for SSDI requires work credits and the payout is determined by the amount of work credits someone has so it is more variable.

State-Based Payments

Alabama provides a small additional payment to its residents. This means that some money comes direct from the federal government while some come from the state. Although it is modest, these payments are determined on the local level and are not available in every location by far.

Local Procedures

The state also has its own governing body to determine disability eligibility. Eligibility determinations run slightly lower than the national average. Around 30 percent of disability cases that are put forth in Alabama are approved.

Applying for disability can be a daunting task and assistance from knowledgeable professionals is often required to win a case. If you need help with your Alabama disability case, contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 today for more information.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

HIRING A DISABILITY LAWYER FOR YOUR SSDI CASE

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 15:21:05 GMT

When it comes to a Social Security Disability case, having all of the advantages you can is the best way to go. Having the assistance of a lawyer can mean much less hassle overall and increase your chances of being approved.

When it comes to a Social Security Disability case , having all of the advantages you can is the best way to go. Having the assistance of a lawyer can mean much less hassle overall and increase your chances of being approved.

Financial Considerations in Your Disability Case

The approval process for disability is long. There are federal regulations which govern the entire process, including the cost of your disability lawyer. It is in the best interest of your attorney for you to win, in more ways than one. Typically, a disability lawyer receives twenty-five percent of a client’s back pay. You are not charged for a disability lawyer if your case fails.

Having Legal Counsel Increases Your Chances

Disability lawyers are extremely aware of the proper ways to win. They can put in a great deal of effort to obtain the right documents that ultimately mean more to assessors and judges in disability cases. They can guide the process in a way that brings a greater chance of success.

Trust a Professional

A professional in disability law can assist you in helping you find the most relevant facts to use in your disability case. It is a worthy investment in your future to trust the right lawyer. Contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SSI AND SSDI BENEFITS CASES

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 15:26:35 GMT

Green Disability Law in Foley can help you sort the differences between an SSI and an SSDI case.

The federal government of the United States runs two distinct disability benefit programs. Each program has different requirements for applicants. While it is possible to apply for both at the same time, they are not administered in the same way. Here is a general summary of the differences.

What is SSI?

Social Security Income (SSI) is for applicants who are disabled without significant financial means or work history. Applicants must demonstrate a relative lack of income. Disabilities must be shown to last at least twelve months or be proven to result in death. Children, adults, and elders over the age of 65, who meet the income requirements, are all eligible. The amount of SSI benefit amounts per month vary by state and are not tied to taxes paid.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) eligibility allows the applicant to tap into Social Security benefits paid into employment taxes. This amount determines the benefit amount per month. To prove eligible, applicants must have a certain number of work credits dependent on their age.

Similarities and Differences in Disability Cases

In both types of cases, medical records will be examined. It is important to understand that eligibility is based on entirely different criteria related to work history and means. These differences in administration of the programs determine how to proceed in disability cases . To hire a lawyer for your case, contact Green Disability Law in Foley at 251-433-1737 .

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

CAN I RECEIVE DISABILITY BENEFITS IF I AM HOMELESS?

Thu, 25 Feb 2016 18:10:46 GMT

According to a report (link to https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/07/16/homeless-report/4153/ )released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), more than two-fifths of the homeless population suffers from some form of disability. Whereas about 17 percent of the general population lives with a disability, nearly 43 percent of the homeless report a disability.

Unfortunately, many homeless people do not get the benefits they need because they believe they need a home address before they can file an application.

If you are homeless, your lack of a permanent residence does not prevent you from applying for and receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The Social Security website specifically states (link to https://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-homeless.htm ): “If you are homeless, you have the same rights and privileges in applying for benefits as someone who is not homeless.”

Medicaid & SSI

In many states, including Alabama, becoming eligible for SSI benefits means a recipient automatically qualifies for health care coverage through Medicaid (link to http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/does-medicare-medicaid-come-with-social-security-ssi-disability-benefits.html ). With these important health care benefits in place, many homeless suffering from physical and mental impairments can get the treatment they need.

Living Arrangements Can Affect SSI Benefits

If you are anticipating homelessness or you are currently homeless, it is important to be aware that certain types of living assistance can have a negative effect on your SSI benefits. For example, living in any kind of public institution can disqualify you from receiving benefits. If you reside in a correctional facility, medical treatment facility or shelter, you may also jeopardize your eligibility for SSI benefits. If you have questions about how your living arrangements impact your SSI benefits, it is very important to speak to an experienced Social Security disability lawyer.

Getting Your Benefits

Without an address, receiving your benefits can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several ways you can receive benefits without having a physical address. According to Social Security, you can opt for any of the following:

Alabama Disability Lawyer

If you need to apply for or appeal a denial of Social Security Disability and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits, contact us today for a free consultation or fill out our online form.

At Green Disability Law, we are proud of our Social Security case record, and we are proud to serve our neighbors in South Alabama. We look forward to assisting you.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN VETERANS AFFAIRS DISABILITY & SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

Thu, 25 Feb 2016 17:45:43 GMT

Many people do not realize they may qualify for veterans’ disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as well as Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Although these are two different programs through two different federal agencies, individuals who qualify for both can receive them simultaneously. Because meeting the eligibility criteria can be challenging, it is important to work with a knowledgeable disability attorney.

Defining “Disabled"

One main difference between the two programs is that the VA and Social Security have different definitions of “disabled.” To be eligible for SSD benefits, an individual must demonstrate that he or she is totally disabled and contributed to the system for a specific amount of time.

By contrast, to qualify for VA benefits, a person must prove he or she has a service-related disability. This disability can range from zero percent disabled to 100 percent disabled. In response, the VA awards a rating based on the person’s degree of disability. The disability rating indicates the person’s rate of compensation.

Furthermore, just because someone receives a zero percent disability rating from the VA does not mean he or she will never qualify for VA benefits. Individuals can reapply in the event their service-related condition becomes worse.

Income-Based Benefits

Another important difference between SSD benefits and VA benefits is that VA benefits do not have income or work requirements. This means a person receiving VA benefits is permitted to keep working.

Improved Chances of SSD Benefits

If the VA gives a person a high disability rating, he or she generally has a greater likelihood of getting approved for SSD benefits. However, the reverse is not always true. Receiving SSD benefits does not always mean a better chance of being granted VA benefits. Because a disability must be service-related to make an individual eligible for VA benefits, a grant of SSD benefits does not necessarily increase a person’s chances of obtaining VA benefits.

Alabama Disability Lawyer

If you need to apply for or appeal a denial of Social Security Disability and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits, contact us today for a free consultation or fill out our online form.

At Green Disability Law, we are proud of our Social Security case record, and we are proud to serve our neighbors in South Alabama. We look forward to assisting you.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

FIVE COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS

Wed, 24 Feb 2016 17:19:18 GMT

Social Security is a government program that can benefit certain workers by providing retirement income. Because it is so complex, you may have questions regarding this program. Here are five of the most common questions and answers related to Social Security.

1. Who is eligible?

To become eligible for Social Security benefits, you must earn credits while you are working. Currently, every $1,260 you earn in income is equivalent to one credit, with a limit of four each year. Usually, 40 credits will allow you to become eligible.

2. When do I begin receiving benefits?

Retirement benefits may begin between ages 62 and 67, depending on what year you were born.

3. What if I am still working?

Once you get to your full retirement age, you can continue being employed without decreasing your benefits. If you choose to receive payments before that, you may have a certain percentage withheld depending on how much you earn.

4. How much money will I get?

This is determined by taking the average of the income from the 35 years you had the most earnings.

5. What about my spouse?

If your spouse also qualifies, then you can both receive full benefits. If they only qualify for an amount that is less than half of yours, then their benefit will be increased to equal half of your rate.

While Social Security can be difficult to understand, by asking questions and learning about it now, you can be more prepared when you retire. For more information on Social Security , visit Green Disability Law in Mobile.

Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest