SSI
19
Apr
Many clients who are seeking our legal services ask this question. Unfortunately, although you can file for Social Security Disability (or SSD) online, Supplemental Security (or SSI) cannot be filed online. In order to file for SSI, you must call the 800 number at 1-800-832-3471 or your local office to schedule a telephone interview with […]
02
Apr
A potentially large group of disability cases could be emerging in the months and years ahead which is being called “the COVID-19 long-hauler”. Thankfully, for most of the population that acquire COVID-19, the symptoms are mild to moderate, lasting only a few weeks. However, there is a group of people that experiences persistent symptoms. Medical […]
19
Feb
Even though hearings are now being held on the telephone, your testimony is still taken under “oath” which means you must tell the truth. When the judge (also Administrative Law Judge or “ALJ”) asks a question, do not try to figure out why the judge is asking that particular question or whether your answer will […]
19
Nov
If you are a Social Security beneficiary, expect to see your benefit increase next year. All SSDI and SSI disability recipients will receive a 1.3 percent COLA for 2021. COLA stands for “Cost of Living Adjustment”. Social Security annually increases benefits to counteract inflation. Here are some other important changes related to the Social Security […]
24
Sep
Once you file an application for SSD or SSI benefits, you will received a “Function Report”. This is from the DDS (Disability Determination Services) who is working up your claim. Although what you write on the form does provide a basis for Social Security approving your claim, generally, it must be backed-up by the medical evidence. […]
01
Jun
Now that you have been approved for Social Security disability benefits, it is not unreasonable to think about whether or not you will continue to receive Social Security Disability (SSD) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI ) payments indefinitely, or if they will stop at some point in the future. Thinking of having to go through […]
27
Mar
The coronavirus pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of Michigander’s daily lives. Many of us are being asked to stay home and businesses forced to close their doors. We are worried about how the pandemic will negatively impact Michigan’s economy. More importantly, we are worried about our loved ones who may get sick. Social Security […]
18
Mar
Social Security Offices, Hearings, Etc. Effective March 17, 2020, all Social Security offices will only offer phone services. All hearing offices are closed to the public, including claimants and representatives. Social Security’s Office of Hearing Operations (OHO) will contact claimants and their representatives who are currently scheduled for an in-person hearing with the option of […]
18
Dec
Michigan reinstated reconsideration in October of this year, the first step in the Social Security disability appeal process. Reconsideration has been an important step in the appeal of disability benefits. Nonetheless, 10 states, including Michigan, eliminated the reconsideration step in 1999 to explore ways to reengineer the disability process. According to Social Security’s website, “reconsideration […]
12
Nov
An important part of your application for Social Security Disability and/or Supplemental Security Income Benefits is the “Function Report” (form SSA 3373). This form is also called an “activities of daily living” questionnaire. I cannot stress the importance of this form as it is used by Social Security to determine your functioning and what you […]