Since the recession began in 2007, nearly 1.6 million people have applied for Social Security disability benefits. Subsequently, the number of individuals receiving these benefits has jumped 22 percent over the same time period. The Social Security Administration indicates that this represents record-setting increases in the number of applicants.
]]> Furthermore, unemployment for individuals living with a disability has hit an all-time high. The latest statistics show that 16.9 percent of those living with a disability are unemployed, which is significantly higher than the overall rate of unemployment.For many people, making the decision to apply for disability benefits can be difficult. The tow-truck driver found that his health had reached the point where he could no longer obtain or hold a job, so he made the decision to apply for Social Security disability benefits. Like many others in his situation, this man is unable to find or keep a job due to forces outside of his control prevent. His illness has even progressed to the point that he can no longer play the bass guitar, a pastime he used to enjoy. It took five months for his application for benefits to be processed an approved.
The economic recession has affected nearly every American, but the downturn has been especially consequential for those living with a disability. Though dealing with a serious medical complication can be complicated, receiving disability benefits can as a measure of protection as individuals and their families try to make ends meet from month to month.
Source: Bloomberg, "Disabled Americans Shrink Size of U.S. Labor Force," Alex Kowalski, May 3, 2012
]]>Nearly 12 years ago, the woman was struck by a shocking diagnosis: She had a rare form of liver cancer. Doctors removed a large tumor, but they didn't realize that much of her chest cavity was also affected. After going through very difficult treatments, the woman's marriage fell apart, in addition to losing custody of her adopted son and her home.
]]> Rather than being discouraged, she decided to go back to school to become a teacher. She was happy with that change, but the cancer came back. After this round of treatment, she was left with a permanent feeding tube and the need to apply for disability benefits.Again, this woman was not content with just letting the disease rule her life. She has first-hand experience with how difficult it can be for people to receive disability benefits, even if their medical condition warrants it, which is why she is pushing for changes.
Currently, the Social Security Administration's "credit of work calculator" only accounts for the last 10 years of an individual's work history, which may include years of dealing with health issues. As a result, the actual amount of money a person paid into the system over their lifetime may be much higher than the current process demonstrates.
Furthermore, the woman would like to see changes in how Supplemental Security Income benefits are dispensed. Current rules dictate that a person must have only $2,000 worth of available resources, which forces many people to liquidate their assets just to qualify. Even though a person's health may necessitate financial assistance, they may not even qualify for benefits that would bring stability to their life.
Every person's medical situation is unique and demands careful consideration for disability benefits. However, in many ways, this woman's story is familiar. If she were physically able, this woman would likely be working full time. Despite all this, she has not given up hope. Rather, she has become a champion for a cause she understands all too well.
Source: Dayton Daily News, "Cancer survivor advocate for disability rights of all," Susan Dalzell, May 2, 2012
]]>The causes of Parkinson's are primarily neurological in nature. Impaired neurons within a specific region of the brain are at the root of Parkinson's disease. The illness is characterized by tremors, deteriorating motor skills, difficulty with movement and slowed speech.
]]> What many people may not know is that Parkinson's is not necessarily a fatal condition. However, the symptoms of the illness can become worse over time, which makes life quite uncomfortable for those affected. As the disease progresses there is a good chance that maintaining a career and engaging in many physical activities will become essentially impossible.Many families dealing with Parkinson's are probably in need of financial relief, particularly if they have been adversely affected by the economic slump. Additionally, medical bills can pile up rather quickly. Families in this situation may be able to secure Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits, depending on their situation. This way, individuals with Parkinson's can focus their attention on preserving their health, rather than agonizing over financial difficulties.
Parkinson's is a disease that can affect people in so many ways. The effects of the disease are not just physical, but can lead to people suffering from depression or other mental conditions. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the illness, but there are measures that can be taken, when the appropriate resources are available, that allow a person to live as comfortable as possible.
Source: Lemon Grove Patch, "Points on Parkinson's Disease," Rachael Grant Dixon, April 18, 2012
]]>According to medical researchers, this type of testing could completely revolutionize the way depression is diagnosed and treated. Rather than solely relying on a patient describing their symptoms, doctors would be able to take a blood sample and pinpoint exactly what they are dealing with.
]]> Moreover, this test could help medical providers distinguish between various types of depression a person may have. Depression can manifest itself in many ways, so understanding the type of depression a person has can help doctors tailor their treatments.Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of this potential medical advancement is that it may help the general population understand the realities of depression, a sometimes incapacitating mental condition. Even though it is the 21st century, there is still an overwhelming skepticism regarding many mental conditions. By providing genetic evidence that depression is real, those who suffer from the disorder may feel more embraced by society and willing to go forward with treatments.
The reality is that depression can strike at the most inopportune times. Though many who have been diagnosed with depression are able to live their lives with relative freedom, there are still many people in Michigan who are overcome by the mental and physical effects of depression.
For those who are not able to work regularly due to depression, this test may be helpful when obtaining Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, which can be a complicated process. If a person has worked before, but they become incapacitated due to a medical condition, they may be entitled to this type of assistance. At the very least, SSDI can help an individual pay their bills in order to get healthy and re-acclimate back into the working world.
Source: CBS News, "Depression blood test for teens may lead to better treatment, less stigma," Ryan Jaslow, April 17, 2012
]]>Funds for a federal program that sponsors Social Security Disability Insurance advocates to work throughout the country will expire on June 30 if the funding is not reauthorized. These individuals help their local communities by helping SSDI applicants correctly fill out application materials, in order to increase the chances of a successful claim and cut down the time between applying and receiving payments. In addition, they help people get connected with beneficial work incentive programs.
]]> This advocacy program helped one particular man turn his life around. Until the man was connected with a Social Security advocate, he was living alone in a storage shed in desperate need of assistance. Within three weeks of working with his advocate, he found help to cut through the "bureaucratic red tape" at the Social Security Administration to receive benefits. He also became part of a federal work incentive program that helps the man keep a roof over his head.According to one Social Security advocate, she works with over 150 people and helps them receive benefits and find work opportunities. If the funds are not reauthorized, this woman would lose her job and many people could be without the resources they need to continue working and maintain the benefits they need in order to stay healthy. The advocates also help to dispel the notion that individuals lose their benefits if they return to the workforce, which is a common concern among recipients.
Even without considering the possibility of funding cuts to federal programs, navigating the complexities of Social Security benefits and work incentive programs. Knowing this, it can be very important for individuals living with an illness or disability to seek out some type of advocate that can honestly and clearly explain their rights and connect them with the programs they need to thrive.
Source: The Daily Courier, "Congressional reauthorization in doubt for program that benefits disabled people," Ken Hedler, April 8, 2012
]]>This is the case for one man who recently sued the federal government for sharing personal information regarding his HIV diagnosis. The man was receiving Social Security disability benefits for his condition, but withheld information about his diagnosis when trying to maintain licensure with the Federal Aviation Administration.
]]> In order to be a certified to fly, pilots must be considered physically fit enough to operate an airplane. For multiple years, the man did not disclose his HIV-positive status to the FAA, but notified the Social Security Administration to receive benefits. When investigating how pilots obtained clean bills of health from their doctors the FAA received the man's Social Security disability records from the SSA.The man then sued the federal government for the emotional distress associated with the improper sharing of private medical records between the two agencies. However, his claim was ultimately denied when the U.S. Supreme Court decided the man could not receive damages for emotional distress under the terms of federal privacy laws. Despite the court's ruling against the man, three members of the court dissented by saying that the inability to sue for damages weakens the spirit of privacy statutes.
At one point, the FAA denied HIV-positive individuals from being licensed pilots, so the man felt the need to hide his diagnosis in order to maintain his certification. As a result of his failure to disclose his diagnosis to the FAA, the man was charged with a misdemeanor for making a false statement.
Clearly, receiving a positive diagnosis for HIV is a very daunting prospect for anyone. The virus acts differently for everyone who contracts it, so becoming debilitated by the disease may happen at any time. It's important to make sure that those dealing with devastating illnesses, such as HIV and AIDS, receive the care and benefits they need to live comfortably. Furthermore, those dealing with a positive diagnosis deserve to have their privacy respected in order to carry out their day-to-day life.
Source: The Washington Post, "Supreme Court says man can't sue government for emotional damage over records sharing," March 28, 2012
]]>More children are being diagnosed with autism each year. This boils down to more children who need extra care, which is suspected to cost $3.2 million over each child's lifetime.
On the other hand, according to a recent report families with autistic children earn less money than families with children who do not suffer from developmental disabilities. In fact, the difference amounted to almost $18,000 less per year.
]]> Why this difference? Apparently it is because mothers of autistic children either do not have a job or they work fewer hours. This is because mothers tend to be responsible for obtaining the necessary medical services for their children. Doing so requires time and energy in order to become their child's advocate and case manager. In many cases, this will mean prioritizing their child's health ahead of their jobs.Interestingly, fathers of autistic children were just as likely to be employed, work the same amount of hours and earn the same pay as fathers of children who develop at a normal rate.
Regardless, how will families with less income be able to pay for the care needed for their children who are suffering from some form of autism?
Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits must play a role in helping families with autistic children live as normal a life as possible. If SSD assistance can help mothers put their children first and their jobs second, then their children may be able to obtain the most effective services possible, and that is certainly a step in the right direction.
Source: Reuters, "Moms of autistic children work less, earn less," Frederik Joelving, March 19, 2012
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Since 2000, nearly 220,000 service members have sustained traumatic brain injuries in the line of duty and more are injuries occur on a daily basis. Additionally, in Michigan alone, about 12,000 people receive the same types of injuries every year. Traumatic brain injuries can be sustained in a variety of ways, including motor vehicle accidents and major falls. These injuries range in severity, from minor concussions to incidents causing permanent neurological damage. Oftentimes, these injuries go undiagnosed in the field of combat, so it is important for veterans and their families to be aware of the symptoms and effects of brain injuries as they come home.
Traumatic brain injuries can affect the families of veterans in so many ways. Without the ability to hold down a job, it may become very difficult for families to cover their cost of living, not to mention any medical expenses stemming from a brain injury. Knowing this, military families dealing with brain injuries may be able to benefit from Social Security Disability payments as they adjust to the return of their loved ones. After all, military veterans have risked their lives to serve all of us, so providing disability benefits is one way society can work to support them as they come home.
Source: Hillsdale Daily News, "Physicians, health care providers urge veterans' families to know signs of TBI," March 14, 2012
]]>At this time, 90 percent of Social Security and SSI payments are already delivered electronically, but for those who still receive their payments via check, this is a big change. Beneficiaries can receive direct deposits to their bank accounts or have their payments loaded onto a debit card under the new plan. Treasury officials are urging people to decide how they would like the electronic payments to be processed as soon as possible, in order to make the transition easier. If an individual does not take action by March 2013, then they will be automatically enrolled in the debit card option.
]]> This change is being labeled as a move for efficiency and convenience. Not only is it easier and more secure for individuals to have a payment delivered instantly and automatically, but it will save the federal government a significant amount of money. In fact, making an electronic payment costs about 10 percent as much as it does to deliver paper checks by mail.Though this move will not alter the amount each beneficiary receives, it is important to understand how monthly benefits are delivered. As such, individuals receiving federal disability benefits should determine what method of payment is best for their personal situation. The debit card option is specifically designed for those without bank accounts. On the other hand, if you trust your bank and receive Social Security benefits, direct deposit may be the best option to consider. As such, an individual should consider consulting with a knowledgeable disability benefits professional if they have concerns about how the upcoming changes may affect them.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, "Social Security to Go Paperless in 2013," March 16, 2012
]]>Commonly known diseases, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, are specific illnesses that fall under the broader category of COPD. Those that suffer from COPD have trouble breathing and will find breathing more difficult as time passes and symptoms progress. In many cases, COPD-related illnesses are not curable, but are only manageable. Without the ability to comfortably and reliably breathe, performing the tasks necessary to hold down a job may be impossible.
]]> For those that suffer from COPD, there are some ways that they can cope with their symptoms. Aside from taking commonly prescribed medications, such as inhalers, those with COPD can work to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and consuming lots of fluids. Though these techniques may help keep symptoms at bay, they will never truly eliminate them.Another aspect of treatment for COPD is going through physical therapy. An individual's struggle to breathe can become so severe that they need to re-learn how to do basic things, such as practicing their breathing and doing laundry. It's clear that living with COPD can be a very tough obstacle to surmount.
One way that those suffering from COPD can find relief is by obtaining a Social Security Disability benefit. If someone is unable to work, they obviously cannot afford the bare essentials needed to survive. Knowing this, it is important for those living with severe respiratory ailments to consider all of their options, medical and otherwise.
Source: The Milford Daily News, "Healthy Habits: Help with managing COPD," Betsy Cross, Mar. 8, 2012
]]>The disability benefits that recipients receive are sometimes minimal, but the health insurance coverage that comes along with the benefits may be of much greater value. Even if able to work, such individuals often continue to suffer from the same problems that motivated them to apply for Social Security Disability to begin with. Without immediate access to health insurance, those denied their Social Security Benefits following a CDR may not have the financial means to pick up their medications that were previously covered by their health insurance.
]]> How often a CDR is conducted may be dependent upon a variety of circumstances. But since such reviews can place at risk the very benefits it may have taken a long while to receive, those that have questions concerning such reviews would be strongly advised to speak with an attorney experienced in the Social Security Disability area.Individuals unable to work due to injury or illness are given few options other than to apply for these kinds of benefits. Yet individuals subjected to continuing CDRs may be on oxygen 24-hours a day, may be suffering from stage 4 Cancer, or may be afflicted with any number of maladies.
Source: Jacksonsun.com, "Social Security and disability reviews," by Beth Bates, Feb. 7, 2012
]]>Over the past decade, there has been approximately 50 percent more claims made, and many of these concern mental and behavioral impairments such as attention deficit disorder (A.D.D.). Yet though such increases may be interpreted as fraud, a great majority of benefits provided go to individuals that are severely in need of assistance.
]]> A disabled child on average only receives around $8,000 a year in disability benefits, and it is estimated that there are 1.2 million low income and disabled children in the United States. To needlessly cut benefits off to a truly disabled child could be devastating.Considering the obstacles such children will face, $8,000 a year will only be a start for helping them deal with their disabilities. Before fraud can be alleged, independent studies by the federal government should be conducted showing that fraudulent claims are actually being filed.
Disabled children and their families should consult with an attorney experienced in the area of Social Security Disability should they need to file a claim or have had a claim denied. It should not be taken for granted that a denial of a claim in anyone indicates that the claim is illegitimate and no disability exists.
Source: CBS 3, "Officials meet in Springfield to discuss flaws in children's SSI," by Samantha Lavien, Feb. 20, 2012
]]>A recent case heard in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit Court weighed in on whether Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was such a malady that would warrant coverage. The plaintiff in that case was a Vietnam veteran who, like so many of our soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, has had significant problems adjusting to civilian life. His wife testified that her husband thrashes in his sleep, sits in the garage with a gun during rainstorms, and has PTSD attacks triggered by lights blinking, particular smells, loud noises and the feeling of damp clothing. The plaintiff claims he has been unable to hold a job since December 31, 2000.
]]> An administrative law judge (ALJ) felt that, despite such symptoms, the plaintiff was capable of working a number of positions and therefore should not be deemed disabled. Part of the problem in establishing disability in his case was that the plaintiff did not actually seek medical treatment until 2003. Though a medical expert wrote a letter to the ALJ stating the plaintiff was unemployable, the ALJ never asked this particular expert any questions concerning PTSD.Cases such as these are complex and require documentation, constant medical follow-up and an establishing of medical facts supporting the claim. The findings of the ALJ were upheld at the federal appellate level in part because the plaintiff failed to substantiate PTSD under these circumstances. Attorneys must guide the process and provide a chronology that indicates a particular medical syndrome to establish a successful claim.
It should not be assumed by this case that the courts are throwing out any claims concerning PTSD. The above case merely indicates that the standard for establishing such a claim is high.
Source: Ron Guranovich v. Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, No. 11-1855 (7th Cir. 2012)
]]>Employers do not always make accommodations for disabled job seekers and thus these individuals have no choices but to file Social Security Disability claims. Of the millions of claims filed in 2011, approximately 1.5 million continue to wait for a decision concerning their applications. Thus the process is sometimes long and is often followed up by a denial. Yet Michigan applicants denied their claims at the initial level should not let their frustrations get in the way of continuing on with the process.
]]> Applicants need to be cognizant that a variety of mistakes can be made will applying for benefits. Often times applicants simply give up, miss appeal deadlines, or choose not to appeal. Applicants would also be well advised to take their time in filling out the applications and provide as much applicable information as they can. Incomplete applications almost guarantee an initial denial (thus the need for attorneys to help complete the forms).Often when applicants are denied on an initial application, they start the whole process over instead of simply adding additional detail to the first application. This mistake can be corrected by keeping copies of all applications and practicing good record keeping.
Many applicants simply underestimate their disability. Simply because the condition failed to worsen prior to the appeal process does not mean that the application warranted rejection. It is estimated that as many as 70 to 80 percent of those denied benefits nevertheless are never able to return to work. And others worked at jobs while hampered with a severe disability.
Though avoiding some of these mistakes may seem like nothing more than commonsense, the fact that so many appeals are lost for these very reasons is why every applicant should be conscious of such mistakes. Applicants should also be aware that a denial of a claim does not mean they are undeserving of disability payments.
Source: World News Report, "The Future of Social Security Disability," Feb. 9, 2012
]]>Receiving disability benefits through the Social Security program is a difficult process, and not all applications are approved. Approval of almost every sort of claim has become more stringent in recent years and requires objective evidence of injury or illness.
]]> Some conditions such as alcoholism and drug abuse will not be considered an illness under current definitions that would make one eligible for benefits. And standards for receiving benefits have been made more difficult for medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, mental retardation and HIV related syndromes.It must be said that current circumstances has not made the filing of claims impossible. However, it may mean that applicants should seek advice in the filing of claims. Because of difficulties presented in making such claims, the help of an attorney experienced in the area of Social Security Disability would be a good place to start for guidance.
If there has been an increase in claims during recent years, this is due in great part to more women and elderly individuals joining the workforce. We have more people attempting to enter the workforce right now than probably anytime in history, and this is going to make a difference in the number of claims filed. Yet those individuals forced out of the workplace due to illness or injuries are in as great of need of Social Security Disability benefits as ever.
Source: USA Today, "Opposing view: Disability benefits remain a vital lifeline," by Charles Martin, Feb. 2, 2012
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