Most people prefer to work for a living, even when they have earned Social Security benefits. Work is a big part of life. It contributes greatly to our sense of identity. It creates a community. It can be meaningful and life-sustaining. People with disabilities don’t...
Social Security Disability Insurance
How long do I have to wait for my Social Security Disability benefits?
That’s a tough question. There is a legally mandated waiting period of five months in most cases, starting with the date you became disabled, before you can receive any benefits. However, this five-month period may not directly come into play in your case because the...
SSDI and SSI in the news
At our law firm, we represent injured or ill Illinoisans in their applications for or termination from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) (and in workers’ compensation claims). Today we share a sample of current...
New conditions qualify for Compassionate Allowances in SSDI, SSI programs
People who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) must be disabled from working to qualify for benefits, among other eligibility requirements. The definition of disability for purposes of these programs is a severe...
Chicago congressman urges SSA to focus on COVID long haulers
Eight months ago, we wrote in this space about COVID-19 long haulers – people who suffer sometimes debilitating symptoms for months after having been infected. In that post, we explained that for a person to meet the disability requirements of Social Security...
SSDI and SSI: What are the sources of governing law?
At our law firm, we advocate for Illinoisans with disabilities that prevent them from working in their claims for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It is well known that the administrative process can take a long time...
Are you suffering from work-related neck injury symptoms?
Anything from repetitive strain to sudden injuries can lead to serious neck pain, and neck pain can lead to chronic, debilitating problems. Understanding more about the types of neck injuries you can develop can help you better recognize the signs of trouble and...
Will long-term COVID-19 support disability claims for SSDI and SSI?
COVID-19 is often without symptoms or may cause only mild illness. But in about 10% of cases, the patients become “long haulers” whose novel coronavirus symptoms continue after they test negative for the virus, sometimes even for months, according to UC Davis Health....
Trump trying to tighten SSDI eligibility before leaving office
In early December, the Social Security Administration (SSA) proposed amending the regulations that require the agency to consider the impact of older age on the ability to work when defining disability for purposes of eligibility for Social Security Disability...
SSDI claimants with ALS may become able to receive benefits faster
Normally, when the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application, the claimant receives their first monthly payment of benefits in the sixth month after the agency found the disability began. This five-month...