Michigan Disability Attorney

What Common Conditions Qualify for Disability Benefits?

Photo of a doctor reviewing medical information with a patient

You may be confused about what conditions are covered under Social Security Disability. We break down the main types of conditions to keep in mind. Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue Disorders Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue conditions are those, which impact an individual’s muscles, ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Diseases of this nature account for the…

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The Top 5 Reasons Your Disability Claim May Be Denied

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When applying for disability benefits, it’s important to know the main reasons claims can be denied in order to avoid these mistakes. Here are 5 main reasons why your disability claim may be denied. 1. You have a short-term disability In order to qualify for disability benefits, an applicant must meet the SSA’s definition of…

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What Does a Partially Favorable Decision Mean?

Picture of a middle aged man sitting down and looking upset reading a letter

When there are certain questions or disagreements surrounding when your disability began, or how long it is expected to last, you may find yourself receiving what is known as a partially favorable decision. But what exactly does that mean? There are two different types of partially favorable decisions. The first type is for a closed…

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Can Student Loans Be Forgiven for Those Receiving Social Security Disability?

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Unfortunately for most students, student loans are a reality. These loans can be intimidating and difficult to pay off, especially for those who become disabled. Whether due to an accident or illness, grads who develop disabilities are often unable to work and make an income, which makes it virtually impossible to make student loan payments….

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How Much Will I Receive Each Month in SSD Benefits?

Social Security card and money

If you are approved for SSD benefits, the amount of money you receive will be based on the average of your lifetime earnings before your disability started. These are referred to as covered earnings, which you paid Social Security taxes on. How Does the SSA Calculate Benefits? The SSA uses an equation that takes into…

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SSA Hiring Freeze May Contribute to Increased Backlog in Disability Cases

stacks of paperwork

The Social Security Administration recently announced a hiring freeze, which could increase the backlog in Social Security Disability cases. Andrew Saul, the new SSA Commissioner, announced the freeze on July 31, and the notice stated the freeze was enacted in an effort to help improve hearings and field office wait times. The freeze affects all…

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How Did the Social Security Disability Program Begin?

people lined up forming disability symbol

Nearly 63 years ago, the Social Security Disability Insurance program was signed into law. But how did we get there? In honor of the upcoming anniversary of the program’s passage, we take a look at how it all began. The Creation of Social Security  U.S. social workers and social scientists advocated for insurance that would…

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How Do You Know if Your Condition is Eligible for SSD?

middle aged woman looking pensive

You or a loved one may have a debilitating condition that affects your mental and/or physical health, and like many, you may be wondering if you are eligible for disability benefits. But how do you know if your medical condition is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA)? The answer can be a…

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What Are Social Security Disability Work Credits?

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In order to receive Social Security Disability benefits (SSD) there are a number of factors that must be met, including having a disability that is expected to last for at least a year, as well as providing sufficient medical evidence and a solid work history. Social Security Disability is funded through FICA taxes that employees…

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Nearly A Third of Workers with Rheumatoid Arthritis Stop Working Five Years After Diagnosis

Person working on computer with arthritis

According to a study, approximately one-third of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis were forced to quit their jobs within five years of being diagnosed. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects nearly 1.3 million Americans. Symptoms of the disease include joint stiffness and swollen joints and severe pain. Rheumatoid arthritis can also…

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