Social Security decisions become more complicated for married couples, especially if one spouse earned much more than the other and is entitled to more benefits. Each spouse has a choice: take benefits on their own earnings record or the spouse’s record. Whether getting married will stop or lower your disability benefits depends on whether you’re…
You’ve done everything the right way and are relieved to receive your disability award letter in the mail. But what does this mean? And what happens next? When the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves your application and you qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, the SSA will send you an award letter, which outlines…
If you experience a serious, long-term illness or injury that prevents you from working, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and worried about affording medical treatment and basic needs. While Social Security Disability benefits can help you during this difficult time, the process to obtaining benefits can be complicated and confusing. That’s why it is important…
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…
If you and a spouse decide to divorce, this is a major change in your life. In addition to the emotional aspects associated with going through a divorce, you are also forced to make many critical decisions about your future, including your finances. But what happens if a spouse has Social Security Disability benefits? Is…
Most of us have some form of social media. We use it to express our feelings, stay in touch with loved ones, remember birthdays and events, and share images. But one way in which it can be used may just surprise you. The federal government may use it to monitor if you are eligible for…
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…
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…
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…
The chairman of a Congressional Ways and Means Subcommittee has requested a federal investigation into the process under which states hire doctors to review applications for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. U.S. Representative John Larson of Connecticut has formally requested the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO), the federal government’s fiscal watchdog, investigate how doctors…
I will never forget you and the hard work you did to secure my Social Security Disability benefits. Thank you!
