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Blog Category: Social Security

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Social Security

What Happens at a Social Security Disability Hearing?

Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability (SSD) hearings can feel like traversing uncharted territory. However, armed with the right knowledge and preparation, you can approach these hearings with confidence. Let’s dive into what exactly unfolds during a Social Security Disability hearing and how you can best prepare for it!

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Social Security

A Simple Checklist for Your Social Security Disability Consultation

So, you’ve filled out a form to meet for a free consultation with a lawyer about your Social Security Disability (SSD) claim! Now what? At Black & Jones, being prepared means easing the journey, especially because the SSD process can be long and daunting. We like to tell our clients everything they need upfront for their initial consultation to be as fully prepared as soon as possible. Here’s a simple list of everything you’ll need when you meet with us.

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Social Security

5 Tips to Be Prepared for Your Social Security Disability Hearing

Securing Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be a challenge, especially with limited law knowledge. The key to success lies in thorough preparation, a clear understanding of the proceedings and the ability to present a compelling case. Black & Jones is proud to help Rockford and the local surrounding communities, equipping you with the assurance and knowledge you need to pursue SSI or SSDI benefits you deserve.

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Social Security

I Can Work While Receiving Social Security Disability Income? How Much Can I Make?

Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is a monthly payment provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) paid to disabled individuals who are unable to work for a living wage. To receive SSDI you must have a qualifying work history and your disability must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which in summary means that your condition is severe enough to significantly limit your ability to work for at least 12 months.

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Social Security

Do I Need to Hire an Attorney to Receive SSDI Benefits?

The short answer is no; however, it is highly recommended that you get an attorney to represent you. Hiring an attorney is free. You do not pay any fees out of your own pocket. There is no cost upfront to you. Attorneys representing claimants seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) before the Social Security Administration (SSA) work on a contingency fee basis.

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Social Security

2023: Important Changes to Social Security Disability and COLA Social Security Disability, COLA and Other 2023 Updates

The Social Security Administration (SSA) finally provided recipients a much-needed cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in 2023. According to the announcement, Social Security beneficiaries would get an 8.7% increase in their monthly payments starting in January 2023. This is the largest COLA increase since 1982 when benefits were increased by 7.4%.

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Social Security

How Are Social Security Benefits Calculated?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a government program that provides benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. The amount of disability benefits a person can receive is calculated based on a variety of factors, including their work history, earnings history and medical condition.

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Social Security

Helpful Facts about Social Security Disability Benefits

Are you or someone you know struggling with a disability that prevents you from making a living? This article discusses the important steps you can take in filing for Social Security benefits—and covers the difference between SSI and SSDI benefits, so you can search for the option that applies to your situation most accurately.

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Security disability form with red "DENIED" stamp.

Social Security

How To Apply For Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a social insurance program under which workers earn coverage for benefits by working and paying Social Security taxes on their earnings. The program provides benefits to disabled workers and their dependents and helps them earn lost income.

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Social Security

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974 was intended to provide significant legal protections for workers’ benefits. There is one aspect of ERISA, called the ‘reservation of discretion’ which insurance companies and plan administrators have been able to use to deny workers health and disability benefits. Under a recent Illinois federal court decision, this has changed.

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Close up of Social Security Disability form.

Social Security

My Doctor Says I’m Disabled. Do I need an Attorney?

Chances are that if you have made the decision to apply for disability, you have talked to your doctor first about whether you qualify for disability. If your doctor has said that you’re disabled, you may not feel the need to hire an attorney because your doctor’s word should be good enough, right?

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