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Many people assume that once they hire a lawyer for their Social Security Disability claim, they can simply sit back and let the lawyer handle everything. That’s a common belief, especially since that’s how it can seem in some types of legal cases. But when it comes to Social Security, it’s a bit different, and it’s important to understand why. Social Security Cases Are a Team Effort Unlike other types of legal matters, Social Security law places the primary responsibility for proving disability on you, the claimant. That means you must provide medical evidence and other documentation to support your claim. While your attorney plays a crucial role in guiding and assisting you, your involvement is essential throughout the process. Lawyers can’t always know when your medical condition changes, when you’ve seen a new doctor, or when you’ve started a new medication unless you tell us. Keeping your lawyer updated helps us help you. This applies to every stage of the process. Medical Records: A Critical Piece Medical records are the backbone of any Social Security Disability claim. Right now, it can be especially challenging for law offices to obtain these records quickly from doctors’ offices. If you’re able to assist by contacting your provider to speed things along, it can make a big difference in moving your case forward. Handling the Paperwork Social Security sends out a lot of paperwork. It can be overwhelming and confusing, and unfortunately, many law firms don’t have the resources to help clients with it. In our office, we actively assist our clients with any paperwork they receive from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or Disability Determination Services (DDS). In fact, we prefer to work on these forms with you to ensure nothing is missed and that your responses help your case, not hurt it. Early Stages: Application and Reconsideration At the initial and reconsideration stages, lawyers don’t have a lot of influence in the decision-making process because of how the system is structured. But that doesn’t mean we can’t help. We make sure all forms are completed correctly and submitted on time, and we keep SSA and DDS updated on any changes in your medical condition, treatments, or medications as long as you keep us informed. (Keep in mind: not all law firms provide this type of support during the early stages. It is important to hire a lawyer that works for you and your case.) Hearings: Where Your Lawyer Makes a Big Impact If your case reaches the hearing stage, that’s where having an experienced attorney becomes especially important. Hearings can be stressful, but they don’t have to be. We prepare you for what to expect, answer your questions, and make sure your case file is complete with all the medical evidence needed. We’ll also inform the court of any missing documents and present legal arguments in support of your claim. Importantly, the attorney you've worked with throughout your case will be the one by your side at the hearing, not someone you’re meeting for the first time that day. Sadly, in many firms, the first time clients meet their hearing attorney is in the waiting room. We believe that only adds to the stress, and we do things differently. After the Hearing: You’re Still Our Client Winning your case doesn’t mean the questions stop, and we’re still here for you. Whether it’s understanding the judge’s decision, preparing for a continuing disability review, or navigating other post-hearing issues, we make ourselves available. Unfortunately, some firms consider their job done once they receive their fee. That leaves many people without the support they need during a critical time. We believe that’s not how it should work. Even if an attorney isn’t pursuing an appeal, they should still explain what happened and what options remain. You deserve to understand your case, win or lose, and what comes next. What You Can Expect From Your Attorney Help gathering and submitting medical records Guidance and support with Social Security and DDS forms Regular communication about updates to your condition or treatment Thorough preparation before a hearing Representation by the attorney you've worked with from the start Ongoing support after your case is decided, with no additional fees We’re here to make the process smoother and less stressful, but remember, the best outcomes happen when we work together. today 833-438-7734

If you were receiving SSI benefits and are incarcerated, post-sentencing, in other words, after being sentenced to jail/prison time, you will not receive SSI benefits while serving your sentence, regardless of the duration. If you are incarcerated for more than a year, you will need to reapply for your SSI benefits when you get out.  Those who are incarcerated for less than a year must notify SSA upon release and have ready proof of their release date. For those who are accused of a crime and are held in jail pending trial, their benefits will be suspended during the time they are awaiting trial.  No SSI benefits are paid back for any time you spend in jail, either waiting for a trial or post-sentencing.   The same rule applies to those who are jailed and awaiting trial.  If you are held for more than a month, your benefits will be suspended. Once you are released, whether by bond, not guilty, or guilty but time served or no jail time, you need to immediately proceed to your field office with your jail release paperwork and have your benefits reinstated.  Time spent in jail, for whatever reason, that exceeds 12 months, requires a new application for benefits.  There is no guarantee that you will be found disabled again, just because you were disabled when you went to jail in the first place.   In Michigan, the MDOC and SSA can collaborate through a pre-release agreement that initiates the SSD or SSI application process approximately 90 days before your scheduled release date. This must be arranged through the MDOC and is only available to individuals that the MDOC believes are eligible for benefits.

🧨 What Happens During a U.S. Government Shutdown? A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass funding legislation by the deadline—typically September 30. When that happens, many federal agencies must stop or scale back operations due to the Antideficiency Act , which prohibits spending without approved funds. ✅ What Stays Open Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid : These are mandatory programs, so payments continue uninterrupted. Military & Law Enforcement : Active-duty personnel, FBI, DEA, Secret Service, and Coast Guard remain on duty. Air Traffic Control & TSA : Essential travel services continue, though delays may occur due to staffing issues. ❌ What Shuts Down National Parks & Museums : Most close to the public; rangers and staff are furloughed. Federal Agencies : Departments like Education, EPA, and NASA pause nonessential operations. Furloughs : Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are sent home without pay until funding resumes. ⚠️ Common Myths Debunked Myth Reality “Social Security checks stop.” No—they’re funded by mandatory spending and continue as usual. “The whole government shuts down.” Not true. Essential services and mandatory programs keep running. “Shutdowns save money.” Actually, they cost billions in lost productivity, delayed services, and back pay.

Aging Out of Eligibility For SSDI/SSI Once a person reaches full retirement age, Social Security disability benefits are automatically converted to retirement benefits. This transition is a common reason why disability benefits may be discontinued. Although the amount of money you receive typically remains the same, the nature of the benefits changes. There’s no need to reapply for benefits; they simply switch from disability to retirement once you reach full retirement age , which is usually between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. Death of the beneficiary Once a person passes away, their Social Security disability benefits are terminated. For families who rely on benefits due to a loved one’s disability, it is essential to notify the SSA of the death promptly, as this ensures that benefits are not mistakenly paid out after the individual has passed. Medical recovery Disability benefits are provided based on an individual’s inability to work due to a medical condition. If a person’s condition improves to the point where they can engage in substantial work again, their Social Security disability benefits can be terminated. The SSA regularly reviews cases  to ensure that the individual continues to meet the medical requirements for disability benefits.  This is commonly referred to as a continuing disability review (CDR).  All disability cases are reviewed every three to seven years.  If you are found to no longer meet the criteria, benefits may be stopped. Failure to cooperate When SSA decides to do a continuing disability review or other review of the claim, and the individual does not cooperate, even if they never received the forms, their benefits will be stopped.  Often, people move and do not update their address with Social Security. Failure to cooperate may result in the termination of benefits due to undeliverable mail. The same goes for any other review of the file, including the annual SSI review or failure to submit pay stubs to SSA.   It is important to keep your contact information updated at the Social Security Administration.   Work recovery If a person on Social Security disability benefits can return to work and earn an income above a certain threshold, their benefits may be terminated. The SSA monitors the work activity of beneficiaries and will stop payments if the individual is deemed able to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). For SSDI recipients, this generally means earning more than a set monthly amount, which changes annually. While the SSA allows individuals to attempt a return to work  through work incentive programs, ongoing employment may eventually lead to the termination of benefits.  SSI recipients do have a deduction in their benefits even if they are making under SGA.  All SSI recipients must turn in their pay each month, and the adjustments are made for the following month.  For anyone who exceeds the threshold for recipients, their benefits will eventually be stopped, and an overpayment may occur.   Termination of benefits for disabled widow(er)s and adult children  For individuals who receive benefits as disabled widow(er)s (DWB) or disabled adult children (DAC), there are additional factors that could result in a termination of benefits. One of the primary reasons for benefit cessation in these cases is marriage.DWB benefits are based on the earnings record of the deceased spouse.  If a disabled widow(er) remarries, they may lose their eligibility for DWB benefits depending on the age of the widow(er) when they remarry.  DAC benefits are based on the earnings record of the disabled child’s parents.  If the disabled chil d marries, they would become ineligible for DAC benefits as the marriage would sever their claim to benefits from the record of their parent.  In addition, if an individual receiving DAC can sustain substantial work activity, it would similarly sever their claim to benefits based on a parent’s earnings record in most situations.  A child who is receiving DAC benefits, who marries and then divorces, is not eligible for DAC again. Incarceration Disability benefits will be suspended for individuals serving more than 30 days in prison or a penal institution after being convicted of a crime. Benefits will be reinstated the month following their release.  It is up to the individual to make sure that SSA is provided with proof of release from incarceration.  If incarceration is for more than one year, the individual will need to reapply for benefits.

What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a jointly funded, Federal-State health insurance program for low-income and needy people. It covers children, the elderly, the blind, and/or individuals with disabilities, as well as other people who receive federally assisted income maintenance payments. Thirty-five states and the District of Columbia provide Medicaid eligibility to individuals who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. In these States, the SSI application is also the Medicaid application. Medicaid eligibility starts the same month as SSI eligibility. The following jurisdictions use the same rules to decide eligibility for Medicaid as SSA uses for SSI, but require the filing of a separate application: Alaska, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and the Northern Mariana Islands. The following States use their own eligibility rules for Medicaid, which differ from SSA's SSI rules. In the following states, a separate application for Medicaid must be filed: Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Virginia. If I am on SSI and go to work, what happens to my Medicaid? One of the biggest concerns SSI beneficiaries have about going to work is the possibility of losing Medicaid coverage. Section 1619(b) of the Social Security Act provides some protection for these beneficiaries. To qualify for continuing Medicaid coverage, a person must: Have been eligible for an SSI cash payment for at least 1 month; Still meet the disability requirement; and Still meet all other non-disability SSI requirements; and Need Medicaid benefits to continue to work; and Have gross earnings that are insufficient to replace SSI, Medicaid, and publicly funded attendant care services. This means that SSI beneficiaries who have earnings too high for an SSI cash payment may be eligible for Medicaid if they meet the above requirements. SSA uses a threshold amount to measure whether a person’s earnings are high enough to replace his/her SSI and Medicaid benefits. This threshold is based on the amount of earnings which would cause SSI cash payments to stop in the person’s State and average Medicaid expenses in that State. If a SSI beneficiary has gross earnings higher than the threshold amount for his/her State, SSA can figure an individual threshold amount if that person has: Impairment-related work expenses; or Blind work expenses; or A plan to achieve self-support; or Personal attendant whose fees are publicly funded; or Medical expenses above the average State amount. We often hear the question, “Does Social Security disability count as income for Medicaid?” If you depend on these services, it is essential to understand how your benefits will impact your ability to maintain sufficient support, no matter your disability status. When you get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it may impact your eligibility for Medicaid, which provides healthcare for low-income individuals. If you need to know how SSDI affects your Medicaid benefits, we can help. While SSDI is considered income when determining Medicaid eligibility, the whole picture is more complex, and several factors come into play. How SSDI Impacts Medicaid Eligibility Medicaid eligibility is generally based on your income level. Each state sets its income thresholds, often tied to the federal poverty level (FPL). In 2024, the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) income limits are as follows: $15,060 annually for a single person $20,440 annually for a couple $25,820 annually for a family of three (For people receiving a full monthly SSI payment in 2025, the annual income is $11,604.00) For Medicaid eligibility, the income limits may differ. For non-elderly adults, the income limit is generally set at 133% of the FPL, translating to approximately: $20,120 annually for a single individual $27,691 annually for a couple If your monthly SSDI payments exceed the Medicaid income limits, you may no longer qualify for Medicaid, especially during the waiting period before you are eligible for Medicare. (Medicare for people who are awarded SSDI is not available until two years after your first SSDI-eligible month.  This is typically 5 months after your established onset date.)  This leaves many SSDI recipients in a difficult position, as they may lose Medicaid benefits before gaining Medicare coverage. Social Security Disability and Medicaid The answer to the question, “Does Social Security disability count as income for Medicaid?” is critical. Yes, SSDI is counted as income. Medicaid uses “modified adjusted gross income” (MAGI) to assess eligibility, and SSDI falls into that category. Although SSDI benefits are not always taxable, they are still considered income for Medicaid purposes. However, certain types of income are not included when calculating Medicaid eligibility, including: SSI (Supplemental Security Income) Workers’ compensation benefits Veterans’ disability benefits Child support payments In many states, SSDI recipients with a monthly income above $1,670 (or $2,265 for couples) may be disqualified from Medicaid due to these limits. Medicaid Expansion and the Affordable Care Act (ACA):  Does Social Security disability count as income for Medicaid The Affordable Care Act (ACA) widened Medicaid eligibility in many states. For residents in the 40 states that adopted this expansion, the increased limit allows more SSDI recipients to qualify for Medicaid during the Medicare waiting period.  Unfortunately, ten states did not expand their Medicaid programs, meaning SSDI recipients in these states may face more stringent income restrictions. Next Steps: Navigating SSDI and Medicaid Eligibility Determining how Social Security disability and Medicaid work together can be challenging, especially given the variability in state programs.  If you have been denied Medicaid due to income, you may have the right to appeal. Contact your local Medicaid agency for more information. Whether you are appealing a denial or seeking guidance on state-specific eligibility criteria, there are ways to secure the healthcare coverage you need during the waiting period for Medicare. Need guidance? Call us today (833) 438-7734 . We’re here to help. Navigating Social Security Disability can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have questions about the expectations, are unsure where to start, have been denied benefits, or just need honest answers, we’re here to help. 📧 Email: attorneyvicki@getssdi.org   📞   Phone: (833) 438-7734   🌐 Website:   www.getssdi.org

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a long and confusing process, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Below is a breakdown of each step in the claims process, how long it usually takes, and what your responsibilities are along the way.  Please note:  These figures are rough estimates based on the current trends observed by our office, ManleyReynolds, PLLC. They do not  constitute legal advice or recommendations. If you speak with our office directly, the information provided may vary depending on the specifics of your situation. These estimates reflect general observations by our attorneys and should not be interpreted as guarantees or expectations. Step 1: The Initial Application The first step in applying for disability benefits is submitting your application to the Social Security Administration (SSA). As of March 5, 2024, SSA reports that it typically takes 6 to 8 months  for an initial application to be processed. However, this timeline can vary depending on, among other things: The type of disability How quickly medical records are obtained How quickly you return required forms Important:  The processing clock doesn’t start until your file is sent from the SSA field office to Disability Determination Services (DDS). Before that happens, your application must be complete. This means: You’ve signed your application You’ve submitted a work history report You’ve signed the SSA-827 (medical release form) The field office has no additional questions Once the file reaches DDS, that agency is responsible for: Gathering your medical records Sending additional questionnaires (if needed) Scheduling consultative exams (if needed) Making a decision to approve or deny your claim What We've Seen: In our experience, most initial applications are completed in 3 to 6 months. However, regardless of how long it takes, most initial applications are denied. g consultative exams. Step 2: Reconsideration After a Denial If your initial claim is denied, you have 60 days  from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration . This step involves a second review by DDS and typically takes 6 to 9 months , although it depends on, among other things: How quickly you submit the required forms How fast the doctor/hospitals respond to medical records requests Any follow-up questions from DDS In our office, we’ve seen reconsiderations processed in 2 to 6 months  once the required paperwork is submitted. That said, some cases have taken 11 months or more . Important Note: Most claims are also denied at the reconsideration stage. Step 3: Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) If you’re denied again at reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. You must do so within 60 days  of the date on your Reconsideration denial letter. Timeline and Process: Wait time for a hearing:  This depends on the local hearings office. In Michigan, it typically takes 6 to 9 months  for a hearing to be scheduled. Advance notice:  You’ll receive at least 75 days’ notice  before the hearing date. After the hearing:  Most ALJs issue a decision within 5 months , although this can be delayed if: Additional medical records are needed The judge allows extra time to gather them After the ALJ Decision: If the ALJ finds you disabled , benefits may begin within 2 to 4 months ; but this depends on your type of claim. For SSI claims: Payments and back pay are processed through the field office. They’ll contact you to review your assets , which affect your monthly payments. Back pay  is typically issued in three installments , six months apart. Any SSI payments you haven’t spent within six months count as assets , which could affect future eligibility. For SSD (Social Security Disability) claims: SSA usually won’t contact you directly. You should call your local field office to confirm your direct deposit details . Back pay  is issued in a lump sum , but payment processing can take 6 months or more . If you receive both SSI and SSD: The SSI asset limit  still applies. You may experience overpayment , especially if SSI starts before SSD is awarded. Hold onto any SSI funds until SSA confirms whether there’s an overpayment. If the judge finds you not disabled , you have 60 days  from the date on the Unfavorable Decision appeal to the Appeals Council . Step 4: The Appeals Council At this level, the Appeals Council does not reconsider your medical evidence  or decide your case again. Instead, it reviews whether the judge followed the law and whether their decision is supported by the medical record.  Even if the medical supports a finding of disability, the Appeals Council cannot overturn the Judge’s decision, just because they could reach a different one, there has to be either a finding the law was not followed or the decision of the ALJ is not supported by evidence. Timeline:  Reviews take 12 to 18 months No new forms or evidence are required The Council can: Uphold the denial Send the case back for another hearing Rarely, approve your claim Step 5: Federal Court Review If the Appeals Council denies your request, your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court ; you must do this within 60 days  of the denial. Timeline:  Cases take 1 to 2 years No new evidence is submitted The court reviews whether SSA followed the law and whether the medical record supported the denial Here, again, the Federal Court cannot overturn the Judge’s decision, just because the record supports a different finding than what the ALJ decided If the court remands (returns) the case, you’ll go back to the hearing stage, with a timeline similar to the first ALJ request. Total Expected Timeline (Michigan) From initial application to a hearing before a judge, the process averages about 23 months  in Michigan. However, this varies depending on the specific facts of your case, medical history, how quickly paperwork is returned, and which hearing office and ALJ is assigned to the claim. Questions? Navigating Social Security Disability can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have questions about the expectations, are unsure where to start, have been denied benefits, or just need honest answers, we’re here to help. 📧 Email: attorneyvicki@getssdi.org   📞   Phone: (833) 438-7734   🌐 Website:   www.getssdi.org Reach out today. We’re ready to listen and guide you every step of the way.

Heads up! If you’re still getting your Social Security benefits through paper checks, there’s a big change coming that you need to know about. Starting September 30, 2025 , the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop sending out paper checks. Instead, they’re moving toward electronic payments, such as direct deposit  to your bank account or using a Direct Express debit card . This move is part of a larger effort by the government to modernize payment systems, save money, and cut down on fraud. If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may have heard that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is no longer issuing paper checks.  This shift to electronic payments has left many people wondering: Why is this happening? What do I need to do? And are there any exceptions? Let’s break it down. Why is Social Security Stopping Paper Checks? The U.S. Department of the Treasury began phasing out paper checks for federal benefits (including SSDI and SSI) in 2013 . The main reasons are: Security : Electronic payments are safer and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks. Speed : You get your money faster—no need to wait for the mail. Cost savings : Direct deposit or debit card payments save the government money on printing and mailing checks. This change affects not just disability payments but also retirement, survivor, and veterans' benefits. What Do I Need to Do If I Still Get Paper Checks? If you're still receiving paper checks for Social Security or SSI, you’ll need to switch to one of the following electronic options: Option 1: Direct Deposit Your benefits go directly into your bank or credit union account. This is the fastest and most common option. How to sign up: Visit www.godirect.gov Call the Go Direct helpline at 1-800-333-1795 Or sign up through your local Social Security office Option 2:  Direct Express® Debit Card If you don’t have a bank account, you can get your payments loaded onto a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® . You can use this card to: Make purchases Get cash at ATMs Pay bills online No credit check or bank account is required to sign up. What If I Can’t Open a Bank Account? Not a problem. The Direct Express® Debit Card  is designed for people in this exact situation. It’s a safe and convenient alternative to a bank account. The card works wherever Mastercard is accepted, and it doesn’t require you to maintain a balance or pay monthly fees. What Happens If I Don’t Switch? If you don’t voluntarily make the switch, the Treasury Department may automatically enroll  you in the Direct Express® Debit Card program. That means your paper checks will stop, and you’ll begin receiving payments on the debit card instead. You risk delays or complications if you don’t take action, so it’s best to make the change ahead of time. What Does This Mean for You? If you currently receive your benefits via paper check, you’ll need to make the switch to an electronic payment method before  the September deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute. Setting up direct deposit is quick and easy, and it ensures your money lands securely and on time each month. You can make the switch by: Signing up through your bank or credit union Creating a mySocialSecurity account  online Visiting your local Social Security office Are There Any Exceptions? Yes, but they’re limited. You may be able to continue receiving paper checks if you qualify for a waiver . Exemptions may be granted if: You’re over age 90 You have a mental impairment or other condition that prevents you from managing electronic payments You live in a remote location without access to banking services or the internet To request a waiver, you’ll need to submit a written request  and explain your situation. Contact the Social Security Administration or the U.S. Treasury for assistance. Why This Change? Moving to digital payments helps make the system safer and more efficient. Electronic payments are faster, more reliable , and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks. This is to reduce Social Security fraud and payment issues.  Social Security’s move away from paper checks is about making disability payments safer, faster, and more efficient. While it might feel like a big change, there are secure and accessible options, whether you have a bank account or not. If you haven’t already switched, take action soon. The sooner you make the move, the smoother your benefits will continue. Have questions or need help making the switch? Reach out to your bank, visit SSA.gov , or stop by your local Social Security office. Questions? If you have questions about your Social Security disability benefits or need help making the switch to electronic payments, we’re here to help!  Call us at 833-438-7734 or email attorneyvicki@getssdi.org ; we’re happy to walk you through your options.  Resources: Go Direct Program Social Security Administration Direct Express®: www.usdirectexpress.com

If you’re living with a disability that prevents you from working, you might be wondering: "Is now really the right time to apply for Social Security Disability benefits?" With political debates, economic uncertainty, and alarming headlines, it's easy to feel unsure. But here’s the truth: the , as it always has. At our law firm, we work with individuals every day who are uncertain about applying. So we’ve put together this guide to explain why now is not only a good time, but the right time to  apply for disability benefits. 1. The Disability System Is Still Working. Claims Are Being Processed and Benefits Are Being Paid Despite what you may hear in the news or on social media, the Social Security Administration (SSA)  continues to operate and fulfill its legal obligations. Disability applications are being reviewed, processed, and, when approved, benefits are being paid as usual. The system is still functioning. If you’re disabled and unable to work, now is not the time to hesitate. The process is still in motion, and delays in applying can only push your benefits further out. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can receive the help you need. If you delay applying, you're only pushing your potential benefits further down the road. The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can receive the support you need. Waiting doesn’t protect you; it just delays your help. Delaying your application  doesn’t make things safer; it just delays the help you may desperately need. If you’re disabled and unable to work, the best time to apply is now. 2. You Paid Into Social Security. You’ve Earned These Benefits Social Security Disability benefits are not a handout; they’re a right you’ve earned . Through every paycheck, you've paid FICA taxes  into the system, funding SSDI  for exactly this purpose: to provide financial support when you're medically unable to work. Applying is your legal right if you're unable to work. 🔹 SSDI is an insurance program you funded 🔹 It’s not welfare, it’s protection for workers like you 🔹 You’re claiming what’s legally and financially yours If this were a private insurance policy you’d paid into for years, you’d file a claim without hesitation. Treat your SSDI benefits the same way; you paid for this coverage, and now it’s time to use it. Don’t let fear or misinformation make you walk away from something you’ve earned. This is your safety net, and it exists because of the work you’ve done. If you meet the qualifications, you’ve earned the right to collect those benefits. Don’t walk away from something that’s yours. 3. Political Noise Is Temporary. Your Disability Benefits Are Long-Term  While political landscape may be loud and unsettling, it changes quickly. Elected officials, debates, and policies come and go . What doesn’t change overnight are federal programs like Social Security. Once you're approved for disability benefits, those payments can last for years or even decades, as long as you remain eligible. However, while elected officials come and go , the federal SSDI program  remains a consistent presence. Your future shouldn't be based on today’s headlines; it should be based on your needs and your legal rights. Don’t let the noise stop you from securing long-term financial stability. Focus on your health, your future, and your legal rights. Don't let today’s headlines discourage you from securing years, possibly decades, of stable and monthly income 4. Social Security Law Is Not Going Away Overnight Worried that the Social Security system might disappear? You’re not alone, but that fear is based more on speculation than reality.  There are fears about the future of Social Security, but it’s important to understand that dismantling or fundamentally altering these programs would take years of legislative action and likely massive public opposition. In the meantime, the laws are still in place, and the benefits are still funded. Even in the most dramatic political scenarios, changes to Social Security would not happen quickly or retroactively affect current claimants.  Even in the most extreme political scenarios, existing Social Security laws remain enforceable . Any proposed changes would take years to implement and would rarely affect people who are already receiving benefits or applying under current rules. There’s a lot of talk about “what ifs” when it comes to the future of Social Security. But the truth is, changing Social Security would take years of legal action, debate, and implementation , and even then, current beneficiaries would likely be protected. So while reform might be a political topic, the law as it stands is solid . You are applying under existing law that protects your right to these benefits. Don’t let fear of the future rob you of the help you need today. Bottom line: if you qualify now, you should apply now. 5. Disability Claim Denials Are Based on Medical and Legal Criteria. Not Politics The SSA bases its decisions  on clear, evidence-based criteria such as: The severity of your medical condition Whether your condition meets SSA’s definition of disability Your work history and FICA contributions The completeness and accuracy of your application Many people are denied on their first try due to the way of the system. But with the right guidance, often from a disability attorney or advocate , many applicants win their benefits on appeal. With the right guidance and a well-prepared application, many people are approved, sometimes after an appeal. The key is understanding that the process is grounded in law and evidence, not partisanship. Don’t assume you’ll be denied because of the current political climate; focus on building a strong, well-supported case . It’s true that not everyone is approved for disability on the first try. But when people are denied, it’s usually because of medical documentation issues, incomplete paperwork, or not meeting SSA’s strict criteria . It is not because of political influence . If you have a disabling condition and a strong application, your case will be evaluated on the facts, not on party lines. And even if you’re denied, many people win on appeal with the right help. So don’t let fear of denial stop you. Focus on building a strong, well-documented case  and get the help you need from experienced professionals. Bottom Line: Don’t Wait, Don’t Worry. Just Apply If you’re living with a disability that prevents you from working, you deserve support  and the support system is still there. The process might seem intimidating, and the headlines might sound scary, but the facts remain: people are getting approved, benefits are being paid, and your right to apply is protected by law. If you have questions or need help navigating the process, reach out to a disability advocate, attorney, or someone you trust. You’re not alone, and help is still available. Start your application. Talk to a disability lawyer or advocate. Gather your medical records. You don’t have to navigate it alone, but you do have to take the first step. Need Help Applying for Disability Benefits? Whether you're just starting your claim or need help appealing a denial, the right legal support can make all the difference. Our firm is here to guide you every step of the way . Reach out today for a free consultation , and let us help you claim the benefits you’ve earned. 📞Call: 833-438-7734  📧 Email: attorneyvicki@getssdi.org  🌐 Website: geetssdi.org Don’t wait. Don’t second-guess. Apply for the benefits you’ve earned.

Beginning November 30, 2024, the maximum amount an attorney can charge under the SSA fee agreement is $9,200.00.  After this date, all claims that are approved and have a proper fee agreement will be capped at $9,200.00 regardless of when the claim was filed.  Beginning January 2026, attorney fee caps will be evaluated annually and increase as appropriate with the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).

This morning, October 10, 2024, the Social Security Administration announced a 2.5% COLA increase for 2025. Also, the maximum SSI payments for an individual will rise to $967.00 a month. Maximum monthly income (SGA) will rise to $1,620.00 a month.  If you make more than $1,620.00 a month pre-tax, you do not financially qualify for Social Security disability benefits.   Maximum monthly income after being approved for SSD will rise to $1,160.00 before a Trial Work Period is triggered.

For the 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment, those on Disability will see an increase of 3.2%. For those looking to file for Disability benefits, the maximum monthly income before taxes will be $1,550.00. This is the maximum one can earn on the job per month and still be below the SGA threshold for Step 1 of the determination process. If you are making more per month than $1,550.00 pre-tax (Gross), you do not qualify for disability benefits, even if your medical condition is severe. For those already receiving Disability benefits (SSDI), the monthly amount that will trigger a Trial Work Period (TWP) will be $1,1100.00 per month. This means that if you are working and receiving SSDI benefits if you make more than $1,110.00 per month before taxes, that amount of income will put you into a period where you can work and still receive benefits for a limited period of time before your SSDI benefits will be stopped. It is important to make sure you understand this before you decide if working and receiving disability benefits is appropriate for your situation. The maximum monthly SSI benefit will rise to $943.00 per individual person. The Government plans on continuing to reduce the SSI benefits for housing and food if you are not responsible for paying for your food and/or housing. The decrease for SSI recipients living with others who are supporting the disabled person will be $311.00 per month. Those who wish to work while receiving SSI benefits will have further reductions of their monthly check and must follow all the requirements or risk having a significant overpayment that will have to be paid back to Social Security.

Are you worried about your chances of getting approved for Social Security Disability benefits? The approval rates might seem discouraging, but it's crucial to understand the process and why persistence is key. Three Key Stages of Applying Initial Application: This is your first shot at getting benefits. Currently, around 37% of initial applications get approved. While this might seem low, remember that many applications are incomplete or don't have sufficient medical support. Reconsideration: Denied initially? Don't despair! Requesting a reconsideration gives you a second chance. While only about 15% of reconsiderations are successful, this step is often where people win their cases with stronger evidence or by addressing errors in their initial application. Hearing: Reconsideration denied? It's all part of the endurance race. If you have gotten this far, request a hearing before an ALJ. This step is where you finally get to talk to someone about your medical issues and how they impact your life. Each ALJ has a specific percentage of awards vs denials. The range is significant, from about 28% to 91%. Only after a case is assigned to a Judge can you determine the approval rate for your specific hearing. The average approval rate is around 54% across the country. Why the Low Approval Rates? Strict Criteria: Social Security Disability has very specific definitions of what qualifies as a disability. You must prove you cannot work ANY job, not just your previous job. Incomplete Applications: Many people apply without a complete understanding of the requirements or without enough medical evidence to support their claim. What Can You Do to Improve Your Odds? Get Organized: Gather extensive medical records, work history details, and any documentation about your limitations. Consult Experts: An experienced Social Security Disability lawyer or advocate can be invaluable in guiding you. Be Persistent: Don't give up after an initial denial! Often, success comes after reconsideration or even later stages of appeal. Important Note: Approval rates are just statistics. Your case and the quality of your application matter most. Having the right attorney on your side also greatly improves your odds of getting benefits. Having the right attorney at any point in the process can greatly improve your odds of getting benefits. At ManleyReynolds, we do everything possible to get your monthly benefits quickly.