This actually should probably be the #1 mistake to avoid.   Do not make the mistake of not completing the form and not turning it in within the requested time period.  You will usually be denied for sure for lack of cooperation.  It seems simple, but often neglected by claimants.… Read More

When asked to complete a Function Report or Daily Activities Report for your Social Security Disability Form, be careful not to generalize too much.  In other words, if asked what you do on an average day, don’t write down a week’s worth of activities into one day.  The examiner will assume verbatim based on your… Read More

add text here – Narcolepsy Merryl Jones… Read More

As of the date of this entry, the Social Security Trust Funds remain relatively stable.  The 2011 report finds that, if no action is taken, the Trust Funds will be able to pay 100% of scheduled benefits until 2036.  However, the Disability Insurance Trust Fund will be depleted in 2018.  Congress can act to reallocate… Read More

Yes, you have an absolute right to object to a video hearing.   A lot of times a video hearing can work to disadvantage a claimant depending on the impairment.   For instance, a claimant might suffer from a horrific skin disease which is best observed in person.  My advice is to make your request for an in-person hearing as… Read More

Yes, you are entitled to collect both veteran disability benefits and Social Security Disability benefits at the same time.  I advise my clients to apply for both at the same time.  A lot of times veterans will wait to apply for Social Security Disability until after they have been approved for disability through the VA. … Read More

Your SSI benefits work somewhat differently than Social Security Disability Benefits. You will be paid SSI benefits beginning on the first of the month after the month in which you applied as long as you were disabled before that date and met the income and asset requirements of the SSI program before that date. Otherwise… Read More

Many people ask why social security disability benefits don’t begin on the date the judge found that they became disabled. Social security disability benefits never begin on the date one becomes disabled because of the waiting period of five full calendar months. Another rule limits payment of back benefits to 12 months before the date… Read More

Unfortunately, the answer is no.  While the 100% disability rating is evidence that the Social Security Administration will consider in determining if you meet their guidelines for Social Security Disability, it is not controlling evidence.  I will give an example to help explain what seems to be unfair.  For instance, the majority of a veteran’s disability rating… Read More

Both programs require that you be disabled; but benefits are calculated differently for the two programs. SSI is a federal welfare program. As such, there is a limit on the amount of “assets” you may have in order to receive any payment at all. Also, the monthly amount of SSI benefits depends on your income… Read More