Social Security recognizes same-sex couples’ marriages in all states, and some non-marital legal relationships (such as some civil unions and domestic partnerships). This is important in determining if you are entitled to certain Social Security and Medicare benefits, and to calculate payment amounts for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). They also Read more…
Question: My application for SSDI or SSI disability benefits was denied. What do I do now? Answer: Your choices now are to 1) appeal, 2) re-apply, or 3) give up. (HINT: we advise most claimants to APPEAL.) When these reasons are given for denying a claim, consider appealing: Based on Read more…
If there is a CDI report in your Social Security Disability file, then I have some bad news. You were reported to the Social Security Administration for possible fraudulent statements in connection with your disability claim or some other fraudulent activities. Social Security ordered an investigation from the Cooperative Disability Read more…
Some important changes are coming to Social Security and the way they deal with fraud allegations. I am not an alarmist, but these changes could prove to be devastating to a lot of folks. The good news is SSA will probably stop some acts of fraud. The bad news is Read more…
First – GO TO THE DOCTOR! You MUST have medical evidence to support your claim. Next – TALK TO THE DOCTOR! Yes, you actually need to TELL the doctor everything that is wrong with you. Your doctor is not a mind reader. These kinds of details are important: “My symptoms Read more…
SSA offices are closed to the public, and their phone service is only available in limited circumstances. Bottom line – unless it’s urgent, don’t bother trying to reach someone at SSA. If you do call, expect to wait 90 minutes or more. ———Message from SSA———– During the COVID-19 pandemic, we Read more…
FYI – SSA has cancelled all in-person ALJ hearings for now. Some are being conducted by telephone. If you have a hearing scheduled – call your hearing office (or your attorney) to find out how your hearing will be handled.
Question: I have a disability hearing scheduled for next month. Can you help me? Answer: Maybe… First, let me be clear – There is MUCH more involved in a disability hearing, than just showing up on the hearing date. We routinely turn down cases where the client just wants an Read more…
Question: Will using Medical Marijuana hurt or help my claim for Disability Benefits? Answer: Medical marijuana isn’t likely to help your claim. But, don’t give up, yet. Read on. Let’s face it, many people who qualify to use medical marijuana in Arkansas are clearly struggling with their mental and/or physical Read more…
Question: I just got a letter from SSA about the 5 day rule. What does this mean to me? Dear Reader: You are not alone. We have gotten many calls and emails from people who received the same letter from SSA. The new five day rule will apply to you if Read more…