Daniel's blog

If the Social Security Administration (SSA) officials handling your claim don’t feel that there is sufficient medical evidence to approve your claim, or if they feel they need to confirm the existing evidence, you may be required to attend a consultative examination. These examinations are performed by third party doctors, mental health professionals, and other qualified individuals. The doctor does not work for you, nor does he (at least in theory) work directly for the SSA.

Scleroderma is a progressive autoimmune disease which affects over 300,000 Americans. The most readily recognizable symptom of scleroderma is a hardening of the skin. Scleroderma can also cause problems with a number of our internal organs. In some cases, it can lead to multiple organ failure and death.

In a rare show of bipartisan solidarity, the US Senate has recently declared April 2012 “Parkinson’s Awareness Month.” It is hoped that by recognizing and drawing attention to this debilitating disease that we can improve treatments and the quality of life for those who suffer with Parkinson’s.

As unemployment rates continue to rise, and the average length of employment becomes longer and longer, more Americans than ever are claiming Social Security Disability benefits on the basis of mental illness.

When you become disabled, there are a number of programs you may qualify for to help replace your income. Depending on the circumstances and nature of your disability, you may be able to:

The payment of Social Security benefits began in the form of physical checks mailed to beneficiaries of course, given that no other means of making payment was available at the time. With the advent of electronic payment options, the Social Security Administration (SSA) gave beneficiaries a choice of how they wished to receive their benefits: through standard mail via check or through electronic funds transfers to their own bank account or to a dedicated debit card.

Since 2003, March has been recognized in the US as National MS Education and Awareness Month. During National MS Education and Awareness Month, the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) and other likeminded organizations make a concerted effort to raise public awareness of Multiple Sclerosis. The MSF also raises money to help fund research and otherwise combat the disease.

March has been recognized as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month since 1987. Then-President Ronald Reagan at that time called for the American people to build understanding and encouragement, and to provide new opportunities for people who have developmental difficulties and disabilities.

People with developmental disabilities are capable to leading fulfilling, productive lives, but may need help from society and government.

If you are a current or former US military service member and are disabled, you may be entitled to expedited processing on Social Security Disability claims. Disabled service members and veterans who have served since October, 2001 qualify, whether or not their disability was a direct result of military service (or whether it even occurred during their time of service).

If you have filed for disability and are waiting for your hearing date to be set, it is a good idea to become familiar with the hearing process so you know what to expect and are not caught off guard by the questions you will be asked and the information you will be required to provide, since this is the most crucial stage in the disability determination process. At this stage, the majority of claims which have been denied at previous levels of the disability application process will be approved. However, this does not mean you are guaranteed an approval.