Disability Experts of Florida's Blog

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD) provides financial support to workers or former workers who are prevented from working due to a non-work-related disability. The program is designed to help people maintain a basic standard of living while they cannot earn a living wage. However, there is a common misconception that SSDI benefits ...

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Collecting Social Security disability benefits may be a new experience, so you may wonder what happens when you get older and become eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. It’s a common question.  The simple answer is that you cannot collect retirement benefits on your Social Security account at the same time as you receive Social ...

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Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a source of intense anxiety, especially if you are unsure whether your claim will be approved. SSD benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. If you are ...

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Once you make it through the application process and receive a notice approving your claim for disability benefits, it’s only natural to be curious about when to expect the first payment. After all, you have bills and expenses that need to be paid.  The folks at Disability Experts Florida understand how important disability in Florida is for the ...

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When a parent is receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, their children may also qualify to receive benefits based on the parent’s work history. This blog post explains how disabled parents can increase the amount of their monthly benefits because they are also supporting their children. This is different from a disabled child being ...

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If you are a service member, you may be wondering if your spouse will receive your VA disability benefits in the unfortunate circumstance of being killed in action or passing away due to a service-related injury. If a service member passes away in such an eventuality, their spouse may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). ...

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The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers three programs to provide financial support to different groups of Americans who are either unable to work due to a disability or who reached their full retirement age (FRA). Each program is governed by a distinct set of rules that can seem complicated to someone unfamiliar with the government’s ...

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Social Security disability benefits provide a financial lifeline when a disability prevents you from working and earning a living. Whether you are in the process of applying for disability benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income programs or already receive monthly benefits, the disability advocates ...

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If you collect Social Security at 66, the amount you earn by working may result in a loss of some or all of your benefits. Unless you were born before 1960, full retirement age is not until you reach age 67.  If you collect retirement benefits earlier than full retirement age, the Social Security Administration will deduct $1 for each $2 in ...

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Individuals who are disabled and unable to work as a result of their disabling condition may apply for and receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Those who are approved for disability benefits usually find them tremendously helpful in relieving the financial burden that can often come with being disabled – ...

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Applying for Social Security Disability at any age can be a challenging undertaking. And learning that different qualifying rules are applied to people of different ages only makes the process more complicated. That’s why we at the Disability Experts of Florida specialize in helping people with disabilities get the Social Security benefits they ...

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Disability due to a medical condition and inability to work due to that condition can lead to financial difficulties and severe mental stress. However, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can help you manage such testing times. So, if you or a loved one is facing a disability, having a good understanding of the SSD benefits process is ...

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If you want to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). One of those criteria is earnings limitations to qualify for SSDI benefits. If you are earning at a job or through self-employment, you can make up only up to a certain amount to be ...

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If you live in Florida and are disabled with a medical condition that prevents you from being able to work, you may be eligible for monthly disability benefits. Typically, these benefits are paid to recipients by the Social Security Administration, and are generally available in two varieties: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits: ...

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If you are going to have a baby or contemplating giving birth to a child, it is a great turning point in your life. However, you must plan your future expenses well in advance and you may have some pragmatic questions about how long you can take off and whether will you still be earning. And will disability insurance cover incidental expenses like ...

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Workers who pay Social Security taxes on their earnings or self-employment income are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance or retirement benefits. Family members of a worker who dies may be entitled to death Social Security benefits through a lump-sum death benefit and through Social Security survivor benefits.  If you believe you are ...

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Social Security Administration (SSA) runs several different programs paying benefits to those who are disabled, blind, or retired. The amount of Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits that you can get at age 65 depends entirely on the program for which you qualify, and other variables discussed in this article. Different Social Security benefit ...

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Filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) means that someone who worked hard for years suffered a serious injury or illness that is preventing them from being able to earn enough income to support themselves and their family. No one who files for SSD benefits has the luxury to wait patiently for an unlimited period of time to learn what the ...

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Suffering from the pain of Lupus is a burden few people can appreciate unless they too know the pain. Those who are receiving or have filed a claim to receive Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits based on Lupus deserve to know as much as possible about the details of their claim. If you are considering filing an SSD claim for a Lupus-related ...

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As those who struggle with bipolar disorder know all too well, this condition is a mental illness that manifests itself through periods of mania and extremely upbeat feelings, followed, often quickly, but moods of severe depression or anxiety. Those who have this condition often experience it as a pendulum, swinging back and forth quickly. It ...

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According to data compiled by the Social Security Administration, 1 in 4 20-year-old workers will be disabled and unable to work before reaching retirement age. That’s a pretty sobering thought that could make you consider the advantages of long term and short-term disability benefits to support you and your family in case of an injury or illness ...

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When you are unable to work because of an illness or injury, Social Security disability benefits may be available to help with living expenses and other bills that can quickly create financial hardship. The process to qualify for benefits is difficult with only about one-third of applications being approved for benefits after the initial ...

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When you are disabled and unable to work, financial challenges may cause stress and anxiety. Social Security disability benefits can help relieve financial pressures, but it takes time before you receive a decision from the Social Security Administration on an initial application or appeal. According to the SSA, getting a decision on an ...

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As the holidays draw near, people may be looking forward to reconnecting with family and friends - especially as the eventful (and stressful for many) year of 2020 draws to a close. Although the holidays are a great opportunity to enjoy time together with loved ones, it’s important to keep COVID safety guidelines in mind as the pandemic continues ...

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Thousands of people depend upon the Social Security Administration (SSA) for financial security and any implemented changes directly affect them. To keep up with inflation, the SSA makes changes every year to the COLA. These Social Security updates were recently announced and while the Social Security COLA adjustments for 2021 are modest, they do ...

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No one wants to risk losing their Social Security benefits, so many Americans applying for or receiving Social Security benefits, whether through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are hesitant to apply for unemployment in the event of a job loss.  Is it true that you will lose benefits? If you’re ...

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The Golden Years are supposed to be full of relaxation and comfortable-living after years of hard work. However, this idea is not always a reality for many seniors.  Whether due to low-wage jobs, poor health conditions, improper planning, or a dozen other reasons, thousands of seniors find their Golden Years to be anything but relaxing.  In 2017, ...

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Handling your disability application and potential for benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be tricky business. There are so many seemingly small factors that can wind up playing deciding roles in your application, that many Americans fall for simple Social Security mistakes and avoidable pitfalls, largely due to lack of ...

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A degenerative brain disorder, Parkinson’s Disease (PD) can result in numerous motor problems that range from minor muscle stiffness to severe difficulties with standing or speaking clearly. If you or a loved one has had a recent Parkinson's Disease diagnosis or has had the disorder for a while now, you may know how difficult - or impossible - it ...

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Have you ever worried about being injured and wondered what will happen to your family if you cannot work? The good news is there are benefits out there to help if you do become disabled and cannot hold employment. Besides the Social Security Administration’s disability benefits, there are other sources of benefits that can provide a portion of ...

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Fighting for SSDI or SSI can be difficult. It’s a time-consuming, often stressful ordeal that can be made even tougher if you have certain diseases which can be difficult to document. This is particularly true without a thorough understanding of the symptoms associated with the disease.  Medical conditions such as lupus are difficult to properly ...

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Having a doctor you can trust is incredibly important in general, but it becomes even more so when applying for disability. Your doctor plays an indispensable role in your disability claim. If your primary care doctor can corroborate this through what is known as a "medical source statement," your chances of being approved for Social Security ...

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Annually held every October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a period of time dedicated to celebrating the nearly 20% of people with disabilities who are employed and educate the American public about fostering a more inclusive workforce environment. This October marks 75 years of observing National Disability Employment ...

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Have you been diagnosed with chronic liver disease? If so, you might be wondering if you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The short answer is “yes.” However, when it comes to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) criteria for being rewarded your benefits, the chief question asked is, “Will this condition prohibit the ...

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The primary goal of Social Security disability benefits is to provide aid to disabled Americans who need it the most and in a timely fashion. While there are many different disabilities that people struggle with on a daily basis, there also are some severely disabling conditions that warrant patients to receive assistance as soon as possible. When ...

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If you've applied for disability, you know how difficult it can be. It can be very time consuming to gather the information needed to file an application. Once that process has finally been completed, many applicants experience a sense of relief. The sheer time and effort it takes to prepare for an SSDI application is one reason why being denied ...

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Did you know that September is International Deaf Awareness Month? The month of September is considered an international celebration of the deaf community, and the last week of the month is known as “International Week of the Deaf” (IWDeaf). Each year throughout September, organizations in countries around the globe get involved in ways to ...

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The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the “Blue Book” listing of impairments to determine which medical conditions qualify for Social Security disability benefits. However, there are hundreds of medical syndromes out there not listed that may be just as severe as the listed qualifying conditions.  With an official diagnosis and a thorough ...

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There are countless illnesses for which you can receive Social Security disability benefits. From disorders of the cardiovascular system, such as heart failure and coronary artery disease, to mental conditions like depression and bipolar disorder, disability benefits are there to help you through. So, let's take a look at just some of the ...

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Every since March, the COVID-19 pandemic has shaken up the routines of millions of people and businesses. The Social Security Administration (SSA) can count itself as one such organization that had to restructure daily operations to keep applicants and employees safe. Changes, including telephone hearings and closed offices, were made among other ...

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As of August 2019, there were nearly 5 million veterans - about 25 percent of the total amount of people who served our country - that had a service-connected disability recognized by the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. Department of Defense.  Veterans can apply for Social Security disability benefits and receive help if they have a ...

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If you’re reading this article, then hopefully you have been approved for Social Security benefits!  Being approved for SSDI or SSI means you can take a deep breath and relax knowing that all your hard work for the past several months (or longer!) has been not in vain. Now, you can receive the benefits that you can rely on to continue to live your ...

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Strokes are often caused by hemorrhage, or pooling of blood in the brain - the effects of which can cause devastating results. Stroke victims can be left with after-effects such as difficulties with speech, walking, vision, or even paralysis of an entire side of one's body. While some people only suffer from a stroke for a short period of time, ...

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If you’ve applied for Social Security disability benefits during the COVID-19 crisis, or applied previously and had your hearing scheduled during the last few months, then you are aware of how COVID-19 has disrupted normal SSA protocol when it comes to hearings. Typical in-person disability hearings before an administrative law judge have been ...

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When we think about Social Security disability benefits, we usually relate the concept to adults receiving help for a certain medical condition or disability. However, adults are not the only recipients of disability benefits. There are a few different ways in which children can qualify to receive Social Security benefits, too. Learn more about ...

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There have been more opportunities than ever before for people with disabilities to get out in nature or engage in activities they’ve never tried. Camps and programs sponsored by organizations that help people with disabilities enjoy barrier-free sports and fun activities can be found across the United States. Whether it’s accessible camping out ...

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Autism is not one disorder, but the name of a broad range of serious developmental conditions. About 1 in 54 children are born with autism, but this disorder can reveal itself in numerous ways. Since autism spectrum disorder is a range of different subtypes, people with autism can all experience different strengths and challenges. While some ...

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Social Security disability benefits have positively affected the lives of thousands of people who need them. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of misconceptions out there about what Social Security is or isn’t.  Here are the most common Social Security myths circulating out there and the real truth behind them. The Truth About Common Social ...

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If you’re a Florida resident who recently filed for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through the SSA, and have since received a denial letter, don’t give up hope. In fact, about 67% of initial disability claims are denied. That being said, the disability benefits process does not stop there. By ...

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Has a loved one passed away recently in your life?  Whether he or she was your spouse, parent, or a family member, there are special considerations to take if they were a Social Security beneficiary. The SSA must be notified of a recipient's passing as soon as possible, while children and spouses may be eligible for all or a portion of the ...

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Living on a fixed income may feel constraining, but it doesn’t have to be with the right budgeting plan! A study found that people with disabilities often have higher expenses—from food to medical care—on top of any additional costs due to living with a disability. Due to these constraints, it’s important for people with disabilities to ...

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Are you considering applying for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits? You may want to assess your work history before doing so. While SSDI benefits are available for those who have paid into it via a payroll tax, there are other requirements and criteria that factor into a person’s SSDI benefits eligibility other than just ...

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As COVID-19 cases begin to recede throughout the country, many states are starting to reopen and evaluate what changes to make to ensure safety. Signs of the “new normal” after COVID-19 can be seen everywhere; it may look like restaurants serving food again with outside seating, stores reopening their doors but with capacity requirements, and a ...

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Whether it's the shift to a remote workforce or social distancing guidelines, the challenges of COVID-19 have been felt by much of the world. However, the impact has been especially felt by the disability community. On top of the regular challenges presented by the coronavirus, people with disabilities have been presented with increased challenges ...

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The world is facing numerous challenges due to COVID-19. However, people with disabilities are facing extra consequences and obstacles as a result of COVID-19 and healthcare initiatives. People with disabilities are already a vulnerable group  - in terms of both the protection of their rights and their health. Many are susceptible to severe ...

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Can I get food stamps if I'm on disability? This is a question that many individuals receiving either Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) may have. So, is it possible to receive both SSDI/SSI and food stamps? Before that can be answered, there are certain eligibility requirements that you have to meet ...

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In the instability of the COVID-19 crisis, Social Security recipients may be worried about their benefits and the status of their economic stimulus relief check. Although the SSA has reassured approved social security beneficiaries that COVID-19 will not affect their benefits, what about your economic stimulus relief?  The economic relief checks ...

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Government officials and health experts have been emphasizing how important social distancing is to “flattening the curve” of coronavirus and protecting those who are susceptible to life-threatening consequences of the virus.  People with disabilities who are chronically ill are also vulnerable to the coronavirus. Individuals with conditions ...

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The COVID-19 outbreak has affected communities all over the nation. Businesses and schools have been shut down or had to resort to virtual classes and services. The safety measures to control the virus have also affected resources for low and fixed income families, such as food assistance and student lunch programs. In response to COVID-19, ...

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If you have a Social Security disability hearing, then you already have plenty on your plate. While this is a great opportunity to advocate your case in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ), it can be intimidating.  Now, with COVID-19 temporarily closing both state and federal level courts and disrupting everyday life for thousands of ...

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The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak didn’t just disrupt businesses—it has put many Americans who rely on access to inexpensive sources of food at risk because of business closures and changes in the schedules of food programs. Even before the outbreak, many people on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) ...

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The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has disrupted the lives of millions of Americans. Even in the Sunshine State of Florida, stay-at-home orders and business closures related to COVID-19 have put many people out of work. This disruption has caused many people on (or waiting to join) Social Security benefits programs to ask: “Will the coronavirus ...

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Social security scams are still incredibly common, and they come in many forms. For example, phishing emails are used as a way to impersonate a Social Security Administration (SSA) employee. These emails are hard to detect. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 92,000 people reported losing $173 million to these kinds of ...

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Massachusetts resident Antonios Sarantos had received more than $55,000 in disability benefits due to reportedly injuring his back. The problem was, Sarantos was not injured. In 2006, he was convicted of disability fraud after investigators found him working at his bar with no back injuries.  Luckily, studies show that disability fraud is not as ...

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The 21st century has witnessed numerous technological progress in a variety of fields, including improvements to help people work with their disabilities. Assistive technology is one of those advancements for people with disabilities and has positively impacted thousands of lives.  Assistive devices have come a long way since its origins in the ...

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If you live in Florida and have a handicap that makes getting around difficult, then you know the importance of having handicapped parking.  Handicap-reserved spaces allow for extra room for walkers or wheelchairs, and are close in proximity to the destination, be it a store or business, so people with disabilities do not need to walk as far to ...

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Individuals with both physical and mental health disabilities are especially susceptible to criminalization and discrimination by law enforcement. Incarcerated people with disabilities are disproportionately arrested and mistreated compared to those incarcerated with no disabilities.   According to a study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics in ...

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Should I apply for disability? If this question has been running through your mind, there are several factors to consider. People can become permanently or temporarily disabled, so you should apply for Social Security benefits as soon as you become disabled since it may take up to three to five months for your application to be processed?  If you ...

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Mark your calendars: March 1st is international wheelchair day! On March 1st, events and activities will be hosted around the world where wheelchair users can celebrate how a wheelchair has positively impacted their lives.   Learn more about this day and wheelchair history below!  What Is International Wheelchair Day?  Since its launch in 2008, ...

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Many people associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with combat veterans; after all, it used to be known as “shell shock” and “combat fatigue.” While many veterans do suffer from PTSD, today we know that this psychiatric disorder can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed other traumatic events, such as a natural disaster, a ...

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  Social Security Disability programs can be a literal lifesaver for people who truly need financial help because of a severe medical condition that prevents them from working for at least a year. Unfortunately, as with most things in life, there’s always someone looking to take advantage of the system. Fabricating a medical condition or financial ...

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People with disabilities are greatly underrepresented in the movie industry. However, movies with characters with disabilities are some of the most inspirational films ever made. Here are five examples where disability in movies is highlighted. Don’t forget to also check out the disability movies lists in part one and part two of this series ...

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Do you know the leading cause of death for Americans? If you guessed heart disease, then you’re correct. Heart disease and conditions are the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. In fact, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease every year.  Heart disease disability is also one of the leading causes of disability in ...

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Dealing with a disability is difficult under any circumstances; this stress is only exacerbated when financial concerns, family, and quality of life are affected. In this article, we’ve compiled a broad list of federal and state disability resources and educational services for individuals in need of disability help, as well as information you can ...

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SSI (Supplemental Social Security Income) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that assists elderly, disabled, or blind Americans with limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on work credits that a person has accrued from working over their lifetime, ...

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Some of us tend to think of disability only in terms of what can be physically seen—a missing limb perhaps, or maybe an assistive device such as a wheelchair, hearing aid, or white cane. Of course, it’s important to remember that not all disabilities have a physical manifestation, and that’s what is meant by the term “invisible disability.” ...

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Your social security disability benefits claim was denied, so you requested a hearing and you’re finally getting your day in court. While this is a great opportunity to finally be heard in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), for many people, the idea of a disability hearing can be intimidating which can lead to bad decision-making. But ...

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Raising a child with disabilities can be difficult for any family, but even more challenging for those with low incomes. In these situations, families often wonder if their child may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.  First off, it’s important to understand children are not eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance ...

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You never thought you’d say it, but you’re actually beginning to miss the daily grind; you definitely miss the water cooler gossip.  After a period of time out of the workforce, you may be thinking about returning to work after long term disability or short term disability. But you may also worry that finding work after disability will endanger ...

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Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, and more than 50 million adults suffer from one form or another. One often-debilitating type of arthritis that affects 1.3 Americans is rheumatoid arthritis, or RA. According to the Arthritis Foundation: “Rheumatoid ...

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Most of us understand that Social Security retirement benefits are not based on your needs—they’re based on how much income you earned during your working life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) keeps a record of these earnings and pays benefits based on the average amount earned over your lifetime, provided a minimum number of work hours ...

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Knowing which Social Security disability benefits you qualify for can sometimes be complicated to sort out when you’re also struggling with a serious medical condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) relies upon medical evidence when evaluating your disability claim, which makes it important for you to know what kinds of medical tests ...

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If you suffer from agoraphobia, you know the challenges it can impose upon your daily life. Even stepping outside your home for a few moments can cause panic and severe anxiety. To make matters worse, people who don’t have experience with this disorder often have a difficult time understanding just how debilitating it can be and how it can impact ...

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If you were married to someone who is now deceased, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits. These benefits operate similarly to an insurance program; everyone pays into Social Security through a portion of the taxes taken out of their income. Should you ever become disabled and can no longer work, you can apply to ...

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Making the decision to apply for disability in Florida can be a tough choice to make. We understand that you've worked hard all your life and acknowledging that you need Social Security Disability (SSDI) can be hard. But there’s no reason to feel bad about this decision. Around one-quarter of working adults will, unfortunately, be forced to make ...

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Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) that affect an estimated 3 million U.S. adults according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC)—an increase of one-third from just 15 years prior. This statistic doesn’t include children under 18, who can also be affected by IBD, because most people are diagnosed in ...

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Maybe you've applied for disability benefits and you've been denied, or perhaps you just need some advice on getting started with your application; whatever the case, a Social Security Disability advocate can offer help and guidance. But how do you pick the right advocate? Here are some things you should ask an advocate before you decide that you ...

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Fibromyalgia, also known as fibromyositis and myofascial pain syndrome, is, quite literally, a nerve-wracking condition that can have severe mental and physical effects. But, currently, the chronic pain disorder isn’t listed as an entry in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book listing of impairments. Yet many people with ...

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Filing for disability benefits can be a long process at times, and it can often be extended even longer by claim denials from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Fortunately, not all is lost if you’ve been denied or had your monthly benefits terminated. If you act promptly to appeal the SSA’s determination, and obtain enough medical evidence ...

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There are more than 18 million veterans living here at home, and those who were on active duty may develop disabilities, injuries, or illnesses as a result of their service. In cases where a veteran has a condition develop or worsen due to their active service, they may be eligible for tax-free disability compensation from the Department of ...

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Has a medically disabling condition stopped you from working? If so, you may want to consider applying for Social Security disability benefits. There are two types of Social Security benefits you may qualify for: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Depending on your prior work history and income level, ...

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Filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be a long, difficult, and exhausting process. This is especially true when you’re busy simply trying to get by and adjust to the massive lifestyle changes that disability brings. So, it’s only natural to want some help from an experienced disability advocate to help you file the ...

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In a perfect world, we’d begin receiving Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI) as soon as we apply. Of course, that’s not how it works. Your case must first be examined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine eligibility and the process can be quite lengthy. If you ultimately are approved, you may then qualify for back pay ...

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If you or a loved one suffers from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, you are all too familiar with the extremes of anxiety—obsessions and compulsions that can take up hours of the day and cause serious distress. And while many movies and television shows play OCD for laughs, you know it’s no joke, whether it’s the double and triple-checking ...

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Diabetes continues to represent a growing health problem in the United States. Type 1 diabetes, otherwise known as insulin-dependent diabetes, often manifests in childhood and requires daily insulin injections and monitoring of blood sugar levels. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes are unable to produce insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. ...

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), benefits many recipients who suffer from a disabling condition or who aren’t eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI amounts vary across the country as some states opt in to provide additional money to the federal SSI ...

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A deluge of recent disasters, from hurricanes to wildfires, has reinforced the notion that they can strike at any time without warning. And while a disaster can be detrimental to anyone, they can be especially dangerous for people with disabilities, who may not be able to act quickly or have the ability to “hunker down” for long stretches of time; ...

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What is ALS? ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease, named after the famous baseball player) is, in essence, a degenerative disease of the nervous system in which the voluntarily controlled muscles and the nerves connected to the muscles degenerate. As the muscles continue to degenerate and atrophy, everyday actions that you carry out become more and more ...

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On June 21 each year, the International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations recognizes a global day for ALS/MND, a disease affecting people around the world regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or region. Designed to raise funds and awareness of the disease, this global event occurs on June 21 this calendar day marks a solstice, or a ...

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There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, and it is the leading cause of disability in America. According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children have a form of arthritis. Arthritis, an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease, is generally caused by obesity, ...

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Disaster can strike at any time, and it’s often not a matter of if, but when. If you’re in the Southeast, there is the threat of hurricanes and flooding; in the Midwest, tornadoes; in the Northeast, snowstorms; and out West, earthquakes and wildfires. When a threat looms, people often need to leave their homes quickly and unexpectedly to stay out ...

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Each year around the globe, cancer claims the lives of millions, and millions more will be diagnosed with the loathsome disease. But rather than focus on the often devastating effects of cancer, National Cancer Survivors Day® honors those who have beaten cancer and those who are fighting it right now! What is National Cancer Survivors Day? ...

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Around the globe, approximately 2.3 million people live with multiple sclerosis (MS), although that number could be much higher because it’s likely that many people with MS remain undiagnosed in certain parts of the world; in the United States, about 200 new cases diagnosed each week. To bring the MS community together, raise awareness, share ...

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If you’ve been diagnosed with a medical condition that is affecting your ability to maintain employment, you may be considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, or perhaps you’ve already begun the process. Either way, you may be wondering if and when is the right time to hire a disability advocate. The short answer is, any time is ...

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Many people’s familiarity with vertigo begins and ends with the 1958 Alfred Hitchcock classic of the same name. Because the film Vertigo featured a character whose condition was triggered by heights, they incorrectly assume vertigo is the fear of heights (which is acrophobia) or even the fear of falling (which is basophobia). But vertigo is its ...

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When it comes to determining disability, there are a lot of factors. These factors play a significant role in your ability to receive Social Security disability benefits. One aspect of disability an administrative law judge (ALJ) and others involved in the approval process will look at is activity limitation versus participation restriction. So ...

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We hear a lot about autism, and the media—putting out movies like Rain Man and the more recent The Accountant—have helped give some attention to it for better or worse. The fact remains, many people simply don’t understand autism, despite the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reporting that approximately 1 in 59 children has an autism spectrum ...

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Everyone should have a good doctor, but this becomes especially important when applying for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). When applying for benefits, you will need to provide evidence demonstrating that you have been unable to work for at least the past year. If your primary care doctor can corroborate this ...

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What do Julius Caesar, Joan of Arc, Agatha Christie, and Adam Horovitz from the Beastie Boys have in common? They have all been diagnosed with epilepsy. That’s just one of the goals of Purple Day: to raise awareness of epilepsy and dispel common myths. After all, it is estimated that 50 million people around the globe suffer from epilepsy, with ...

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There are very few things that government agencies do without a lot of confusing paperwork (or online forms). The Social Security Administration (SSA) is no different. For people with disabilities, filing your application for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income is of paramount importance. Qualifying can enable individuals ...

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The Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is a form that is filled out by your doctor. This form explains your ability—or inability—to perform work-related tasks, and find and maintain employment. As a matter of fact, this form is informally known as the “Ability to Do Work Related Activity” form. To be awarded Social Security Disability, you need to ...

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Obtaining disability benefits can be very challenging. Reports show that more than 50% of disability claims are denied on the initial attempt, making the experience very frustrating for those who truly in need. Complicating matters, it’s up to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) ...

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Looking for a new home in a new city, perhaps away from the support of friends and family, can make even the most independent person nervous. If you are a person with a disability, this anxiety can be compounded by a list of factors. People who are disabled often have to consider not just public transportation, but the accessibility of facilities, ...

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For many Americans approaching retirement age, it’s a very real worry: Will there be enough in Social Security to cover my needs? How can I get the most to support myself? And what about my spouse? There are hundreds, if not thousands, of articles that address these concerns, and usually they involve an enormous amount of trepidation and volumes ...

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The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 1 billion people—nearly one in six of the world’s population—suffer from a neurological disorder. Defined as a disease of the brain, spine, and the nerves that connect them, neurological disorders come in many forms. The most common adult-onset neurological disorders are as follows: Stoke ...

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When it comes to movies, people with disabilities are rarely seen. So, when a film depicting a disabled individual comes around, no matter the disability, we like to highlight it. Be sure to check out part one of this series, and take a look at a few more covered below. Soul Surfer (2011) Soul Surfer follows Bethany Hamilton, a teen who loved to ...

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As the government shutdown wears on, many Americans who are on Social Security disability or retirement benefits are becoming increasingly worried. Shutdowns since 1980 have lasted, on average, five and a half days, making them of little concern to recipients; however, the current government shutdown is now the longest in our country’s history ...

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In our recent blog 8 Tips to Winning Your Social Security Disability Case, we said that honesty is always the best policy. We also recommended that you don’t overshare, e.g. bringing up a criminal record or a history of drug abuse if you’re not asked about it. If you are asked, it’s not grounds for dismissal and it’s likely they will find out ...

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Since 1965, Medicaid has been helping families on welfare, low-income seniors, disabled individuals, pregnant women, and newborns by providing a form of health coverage. Under President Obama, Medicaid was expanded, allowing states to cover millions more low-income adults. Today, this federal-state collaboration covers more than 70 million ...

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Many people believe that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is focused mainly on preventing discrimination for those with disabilities seeking employment. What they may not realize is that ADA legislation is also there to provide job security to those who become disabled while already employed, whether the disability is job-related or not. ...

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For most people who are unburdened by physical and mental challenges, July 26, 1990 was a day like any other. But for an estimated 55 million Americans at that time, it was a historic day that changed their lives forever. On that day, President George H.W. Bush sat down at a desk on a stage that had been erected on the White House lawn. Surrounded ...

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Deciding whether to put a family member in an assisted living or nursing home facility is never an easy choice. It can mark a time in a person’s life that many are afraid to acknowledge. So, it only makes sense that, if it must be done, your grandparents, parents, or other family member receives the best care possible. One of the more costly ...

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Depression is a mental illness that leaves many feeling helpless, useless, and stuck, going far beyond feelings of sadness. The debilitating effects for a person with depression can keep them in bed for days, ignoring basic hygiene and daily activities, and heavily impacting their work and personal relationships. While a stigma still remains ...

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According to World Health Organization and World Bank figures, about 1 billion people—15% of the world’s population—are disabled. With that in mind, the United Nations held the Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities in 2006. At the convention, held in New York City, a human rights treaty was presented, designed to protect the rights ...

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Since 1955, Tax Day has rolled around once a year, typically on April 15th for those living in the United States, and June 15th for US citizens living abroad or in a US territory (due to a two-month automatic extension granted by the IRS). For individuals working for an employer, tax season is pretty straightforward; your employer deducts taxes ...

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Nearly 14% of Floridians are suffering from some sort of disability. But how many of those individuals are actually getting the support they deserve? Reports show that over 50% of disability claims are denied on the initial try, making the experience very frustrating for many individuals. Complicating matters, it’s not up to individual states to ...

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Welcome to Part 2 in our series "5 Super Successful People With Disabilities" (be sure to check out Part 1 as well). Overcoming adversity is a cornerstone of the human experience. For many people, they are able to rise above a challenge and move on from it. However, those with disabilities may face challenges daily. So when a disabled person is ...

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When it comes to movies, people with disabilities are rarely seen. However, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 40 million Americans have a disability, representing almost 13% of the population. So when disabled individuals make up just 2.5% of characters in 2017’s top 100 films, there seems to be a big disparity. However, when Hollywood ...

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People who are hearing impaired face considerable challenges. They experience and navigate the world much differently than those with perfect hearing. To gain an understanding of the difficulties they may face, here are ten situations you may have never thought of that make life more challenging when little to nothing is audible. 1. Public ...

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What's the talk around town? What's trending on Twitter? Let's face it, news about the rights of the disabled is usually not making front page news. It's unfortunate, but it's reality. So, in an effort to keep people informed and to help them make a difference, we're rounding up today’s current hot topics into one convenient post. H.R. 620: ADA ...

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Everyday life for those with a disability can pose a myriad of challenges. For those with wanderlust, it may present another whole new set of them. While some destinations are not going to be as accommodating as others, don’t let disability rule out your desire to see the world. Here are some tips to make your dreams of travel a reality. Consult ...

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Earlier this month, Starbucks and American Airlines became the first two major companies to announce that they were phasing out plastic straws, and Seattle became the first U.S. city to ban them from food service establishments. While there’s no doubt that eliminating the use of plastic straws does offer environmental and health benefits, it also ...

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Living with a disability can at times be challenging and exhausting. Sometimes, when you’re feeling down, it can help to know there are other people out there in the same or at least a similar boat. We scoured the internet to find the best blogs regarding disability, and have come up with five inspirational ones—and an extra one perfect for those ...

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  The federal American With Disability Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990, making it illegal for employers, including private, state and local government, and labor organizations, to discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities. This doesn’t just apply to hiring practices—it also includes recruitment, promotions, training, type ...

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Unlike most other developed countries, the United States does not have a mandatory maternity law on a national level (a handful of states do, but Florida is not one of them). While many companies have taken it upon themselves to offer some form of paid maternity leave, many others have not. So what is a new mom to do? Often, they must rely on ...

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Overcoming adversity is a cornerstone of the human experience. For many people, they are able to rise above a challenge and move on from it. However, those with disabilities may face challenges daily. So when a disabled person is able to not just overcome adversity but achieve unparalleled levels of success, it is truly inspiring! From art to ...

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Have you heard about Pebbles, the emotional support hamster? Or Dexter the peacock? What about Hobie the pig? If not, we’ll look at these cases in a bit. But the fact is, the number of people claiming their pet constitutes an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) has risen in recent years, causing lawmakers and business owners to suspect that many are ...

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The use of medicinal marijuana is becoming more common around the country, with 27 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico all having some form of medicinal marijuana acceptance laws with a doctor’s recommendation. Eight states now even have full legalization. However, despite its growing acceptance, marijuana is still considered a ...

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Physical and mental disability can leave people struggling to make ends meet, making applying for disability benefits a necessity for many Americans. However, without a doctor’s endorsement, obtaining Social Security Administration (SSA) disability benefits can be difficult. Unfortunately, disability leaves many individuals unable to secure work ...

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Omnibus. It sounds ominous, right? But it makes sense. Derived from Latin and meaning "for everything," the $1.3 trillion omnibus spending bill covers everything from border walls to baseball. Approved by congress and signed by President Trump in March, the omnibus bill (officially known as the Consolidations Appropriations Act) still left many ...

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  There wasn’t a whole lot of talk about COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, until recently. Now, commercials for COPD medications and treatment consume the airwaves; Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac, right Boomers? But for many, we’re wondering what is COPD, who is affected by it, and is Social Security Disability available for those ...

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What are the right words? Which are the wrong ones? What can I do—and what shouldn’t I do? If you have a friend or loved one who is the parent of a special needs child, these are all questions you may be asking yourself. While some people seem to have that natural ability to always know how to respond or react in any given situation, others ...

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As advocates for the disabled, we work tirelessly every day to ensure their well-being and future security. But unfortunately, cases of abuse happen all too frequently—and these are only the ones that we know about. Abuse can happen in a home situation, by a parent, child, or partner. But it can also happen in a special care facility, where we may ...

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The American Community Survey (ACS) reports that approximately 12.8 percent of the American population suffers from some sort of disability. Focusing on Florida, that number jumps to 13.7 percent (although the Sunshine State hardly tops the list; that would be West Virginia, at nearly 20 percent). But when it comes to applying for disability, it’s ...

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While progress has been gradual, life for Americans with disabilities has been improving. Laws have been enacted to provide protection; benefits are being provided; housing is becoming equal; and proper public accommodations are being offered. But with the United States Census Bureau reporting that nearly one in five Americans is disabled, we ...

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While many people around the world continue to look toward America as the land of opportunity, others are considering making a temporary or even permanent move.  While the current political climate is often to blame (Royal LePage, Canada's largest realtor, reported a 40 percent increase in the number of Americans looking at homes on its website in ...

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Fighting your way through a busy mall. Waiting in line for a sold-out show. Stepping into a crowded elevator. For you, these situations are nothing unusual; it’s just going about your day-to-day life. But for someone suffering from agoraphobia, these everyday occurrences can cause crushing chest pain, rapid heart rate, disorientation, and an ...

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Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, communication, and thought processes among patients. The disease can, therefore, be very difficult to deal with for both patients and their loved ones. Patients often are characterized as having dementia, a group of symptoms that affect mental cognitive functions, as brain ...

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When you apply for Social Security disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) typically will want to know more about your current situation so they can determine your eligibility. An application will contain requests for birth records, employment history, educational background, medical records, and criminal records. You may be ...

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Many people regard having a skin condition as an annoyance or hindrance to looking flawless. However, if you suffer from a skin condition, you probably know that the reality is far different and more serious. Beyond aesthetics, psoriasis often causes the skin around joints, such as elbows and knees, to become white and scaly. The skin also can ...

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If you have been around people with chronic illnesses, you probably have an idea of their daily struggles. These conditions can interfere with one’s independence and their ability to carry out physical activities. They can also lead to changes in one’s overall appearance due to their health condition. Furthermore, the adjustments to one’s ...

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In addition to awaiting approval, there also is a mandatory waiting period of five months for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) after your application is approved. During this waiting period, you will not receive any SSDI payments for your application. Qualifying for disability assistance also is very competitive; only 35% of ...

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If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you have likely experienced the harmfulness and discomfort that is associated with asthma attacks. The shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and chest tightness can greatly interfere with your daily activities. In some cases, you may experience symptoms that are so severe that you need to make frequent ...

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The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs two separate programs that provide disabled persons with financial assistance on a monthly basis. The first program, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), is aimed at providing assistance to individuals who can no longer work due to any medical conditions that are expected to last for at least ...

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What's the Penalty for Committing Fraud When Applying for Social Security Benefits? For four years Between 1999 and 2002, veteran Anthony Patrick Stanford had regularly reported pain in his ankles and wrists, which made doctors issue him with a mechanical wheelchair after performing various surgeries. As a result of his disability, Stanford ...

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Pregnancy and childbirth are beautiful acts of nature, and a truly rewarding experience. As a result, most mothers go through a roller-coaster of emotions from the time they learn that they are pregnant to the time they conceive. The top concern for a mother during pregnancy is the health of herself and her baby. In some unfortunate cases, ...

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After paying into the system for so many years, many retirees are eager to know how to navigate through Social Security and begin receiving their benefits. However, understanding the specifics about Social Security benefits can be a challenging and confusing process. There are multiple factors that go into your determining your benefits, including ...

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The Social Security Administration (SSA) operates two programs that are aimed at providing assistance to disabled Americans. If you have a permanent disability that prevents you from working, you can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or both. SSDI provides benefits to individuals who can ...

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Disability benefits are normally given to persons with an impairment that is so severe, that it prevents them from participating in any substantial gainful activity. A diagnosis of diabetes in itself does not lead to the granting of disability benefits. However, cases of diabetes can lead to other bodily complications such as damage to the nerves, ...

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is issued to any person who meets the SSA guidelines for disability and income and resource requirements. People with low income and assets amounting to less than $2000 can typically qualify for SSI if they are disabled. Homeless persons are entitled to the same application processes as other applicants for SSI. ...

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Disability benefits are typically viewed as applying to only the elderly or other injured adults. However, children are also susceptible to getting disabilities. In fact, in 2013 alone, over 1 million children who were themselves disabled or had disabled parents received monthly disability payments. SSI vs. SSDI for Children Children often qualify ...

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Receiving disability benefits can be likened to running a marathon, where applying and being accepted for benefits is the first lap of a long race. Applying for disability benefits is a lengthy and often stressful process. So once you receive that acceptance letter, it can be a great sigh of relief. Only 35% of applications are accepted by the ...

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Due to the vast number of disability applications that are filed, it is important for applicants to adhere to the timelines that are set by the SSA for filing disability appeals. In fact, only about 36% of disability applications are approved by the SSA. In order to improve the chances of getting your appeal reviewed favorably, you should be aware ...

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In order to ascertain that recipients of disability benefits are truly and permanently disabled, the SSA continuously reviews your medical condition as well as your ability to work so as to assess whether you should continue to receive benefits. Disability benefits are only granted to individuals who have an impairment that prevents them from ...

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A cancer diagnosis can be a life-changing experience for many patients. Depending on the type of cancer you have and how it impacts your overall health, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits from the SSA. There are certain specific criteria through which the SSA determines your eligibility for disability benefits if you have cancer. ...

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When you apply for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration follows a process through which it determines whether or not you’re capable of earning a living. This will be the major determining factor when they evaluate your application for disability benefits. To assist the SSA in determining your ability to work, they follow a ...

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FICA stands for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act. Simply put, it is a tax provision that funds the Social Security Disability program, among other federal programs. It is operated by the IRS, and employees pay into this tax pool in order to facilitate the administration of Social Security disability benefits and other critical federal ...

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Sleep apnea is a condition where a person experience pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during their sleep. It often arises due to one being unable to maintain a constant airflow through their nose and mouth, causing shortness of breath. A person may stop breathing for up to 30 seconds at a time, and this may happen regularly throughout the ...

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There are several circumstances under which veterans can qualify for social security disability benefits. These benefits could be in addition to any compensation they are receiving from the VA. In order for veterans to qualify for disability benefits from the SSA, they have to have a disability that prevens them from participating in any ...

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The main basis of a social security disability claim is the presence of an impairment that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity. In order for the SSA to approve your disability claim,it must be convinced that you have sought after all types of treatment in your power for your medical condition. In attempting to prove the ...

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Chronic back pain can be caused by many different spinal factors, ranging from degenerative discs to inflammatory conditions. When seeking disability benefits for chronic back pain, your application ultimately comes down to establishing a medically determinable condition, the functional limitations of your back problem and the credibility of your ...

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Myths & Facts About the Social Security Disability Program [Infographic] Click to Download

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There are several requirements that the SSA has put in place for working while receiving disability benefits. SSDI and SSI disability benefits are normally granted on the basis that your disability is severe enough that it prevents you from participating in any substantial gainful activity—such as working. The general rule is that if you are ...

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Disability benefits are normally granted to individuals who suffer from a physical or mental impairment that prevents them from participating in most forms of work or any substantial gainful activity. Because persons receiving such benefits are unable to work productively, they may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. Therefore, ...

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In certain circumstances, applications for social security disability and SSI claims can be denied by the SSA. The applicant, however, has the right to appeal this decision. The disability appeals process has 4 different stages: reconsideration, hearing,  Appeals council and court. Each of these stages is explained in more detail below. ...

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The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a program run by the Social Security Administration that offers benefits to people with limited financial resources, people living with disabilities, people unable to work due to medical conditions, and disabled or blind children of people with limited resources. The SSI program can be complicated ...

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Facing disability is always a very stressful time in someone’s life. According to the SSA, the risks of becoming disabled are increasing steadily, with about 1 in 4 of today’s 20-year olds likely to become disabled by age 67. It is, therefore, crucial for you to understand the process of applying for disability benefits, as well as to be in a ...

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Persons who are temporarily out of work due to circumstances beyond their control can apply for unemployment benefits. Eligibility for unemployment benefits is determined by several factors, which include prior earnings, difficulty or inability to get new work and your availability. Specifics on these requirements may vary from state to state, but ...

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If you’ve been following the news stories over the last few months, then you may have some concerns about what will happen to Social Security in the near future. With the current administration proposing to make changes to Medicaid funding and looking to cut Federal operating budgets, staffing cuts seem likely. In late January, President Trump ...

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Did you know that last year over 65,000 people over the age of 65 were eligible for their Social Security benefits? When the time comes to hang your work boots and call it quits, it is only normal to want to know if you will be taken care of. According to statistics, many people from their early 50s tend to develop health complications that force ...

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Every now and again, you might hear a news story or a politician talking about the Social Security program and how it’s going to run out of money soon. Sometimes, pundits will make the claim that Social Security is draining resources from the government (which is patently untrue—Social Security is funded by a payroll deduction that’s completely ...

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The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs help millions of Americans every year. These programs give people who suffer from disabling long-term conditions much-needed financial support. However, before you file for either of these programs, there are a few things you’re going to need to know, ...

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The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs help millions of people with disabilities in the USA provide for themselves and their families. To help put the importance of these Social Security programs into perspective, here are a few numbers about disability benefits in the USA*: 10,237,204 This ...

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Almost everyone knows about the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. However, fewer people are as familiar with the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSI program helps to cover the gaps in the Social Security retirement and disability programs, and is often used by ...

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A lot of people ask about the differences between Medicare and Medicaid. These two government programs are often mentioned together and both provide basic healthcare benefits. So, it’s only natural that there’d be some confusion about the difference between the two. Medicare Medicare is a federal program that provides health coverage to you if ...

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You may have heard about the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) Representative Payee Program, but not know much about it yet, such as: What it is; Who it’s for; How you can participate; and What the rules are. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at this SSA program and, hopefully, answer some of the bigger questions you might have about ...

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There are many disabilities and long-term injuries that can make getting around incredibly difficult. Some conditions are so severe they require the use of bulky wheelchairs, walkers, or other specialized equipment. Others may need to stop to rest too frequently to cover the distance from the back of a parking to the business’ doors. This is why ...

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One of the most frequently-asked (and important) questions many Floridians have about their disability benefits claim is “how much money will I get when I qualify for disability in Florida?” This is an important piece of information to know when planning out your household budget. After all, if you’re not sure how much you’ll get in disability ...

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The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program is a key support for many disabled American workers who can no longer do the work they used to rely on to provide for themselves and their families. However, there are many things about this program that many people simply don’t know. Knowing as much as possible about the Social Security ...

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Social Security program that can help disabled Americans who cannot qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because of their work history meet their basic financial needs. While not as robust as SSDI, SSI provides a vital support for many Americans in need of a stable source of income. ...

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Filing for disability with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be a massive burden for many. For the recently disabled, the challenges in simply adjusting to life with a disabling condition can be tough enough without adding the struggles of dealing with a massive, overloaded bureaucracy to the list. Unfortunately, all too many disability ...

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According to a study by AARP, “nearly 40 million Americans in 2014 were providing unpaid care to people who are older, disabled, or otherwise in need of assistance.”  Worse yet, “by 2020, 117 million Americans are expected to need assistance of some kind, yet the overall number of unpaid caregivers is only expected to reach 45 million.” That’s ...

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  Social Security can be a confusing program to deal with at times. There are so many different organizations and programs to deal with that it’s all too easy to get lost in the system. Think about it: not only do you have to deal with the Social Security Administration (SSA), you have to contend with different state-level organizations, such as ...

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Alzheimer’s Disease, or AD, can be a terrifying condition to live with. The disease is well-known for its effects on senior citizens over the age of 65—the loss of cognitive functions such as memory, language, and judgment which make it progressively harder and harder to cope each and every day. According to statistics from the Alzheimer’s ...

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If you’re familiar with the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, then you probably know a few basics about how it helps disabled workers support themselves and their families. You may also know about the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) blue book that details the specific conditions that can qualify for disability. The blue ...

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Normally, when you sign up for Social Security benefits of any kind, you’re making the application based on your own work history and earnings. However, in some cases, you may be able to claim benefits based on someone else’s Social Security Eanings Record. This begs the question: If you could collect benefits based on someone else’s work history, ...

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Social Security is one of the most prevalent lifelines available to American workers. According to statistics from the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) Understanding the Benefits publication, “about 60 million people receive monthly Social Security benefits.” These benefits take many forms, from retirement benefits, to disability ...

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For many Americans, Social Security is the final defense against total poverty when they can no longer work because of old age or disability. But, how did Social Security get its start, and why? Going Back to Before Social Security While Social Security was officially signed into law in 1935, the history of change that led up to the creation of ...

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The topic of how your loved ones will be able to support themselves if you die is not a pleasant one. It can be difficult to know that one day, you might not be there for your spouse or child anymore. Most of the time, when talking about how you can support your family if you pass on, you’d be talking about life insurance (which is a good idea if ...

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Becoming disabled is a terrible and difficult ordeal. To lose the ability to do the things you once could, the things you once enjoyed, is a terrible burden. Adjusting to this change takes time—but you still need to pay the bills and take care of yourself and your family. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income ...

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