Latest news with #SocialSecurityDisability
Business Wire
26-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Black & Jones Establishes Scholarship Fund to Support Local Trade Students
ROCKFORD, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, a leading law firm dedicated to serving the greater Rockford Region, proudly announces the launch of the Black & Jones Scholarship Fund. The initiative emphasizes the firm's deep commitment to community development and directly supports graduating high school students pursuing careers in skilled trades. "We are proud to celebrate 25 years of serving the Rockford community and recognize the vital role that skilled trades play in our local economy and beyond,' said Tracy Jones, Attorney/Owner at Black & Jones. Share In its inaugural year in 2025, the fund will award ten deserving students with $2,500 scholarships to assist with their education and career development at accredited trade or vocational schools. Starting next year, the scholarship will award one student with a $2,500 scholarship annually. 'We are proud to celebrate 25 years of serving the Rockford community and recognize the vital role that skilled trades play in our local economy and beyond,' said Tracy Jones, Attorney/Owner at Black & Jones. 'This new scholarship is our way of investing directly in the future workforce, providing opportunities for local students to pursue valuable education. We have such talented youth in our community, and we are excited to recognize these individuals while playing a role in helping to empower the next generation to build meaningful careers.' The Black & Jones Scholarship Fund is open to graduating high school seniors from within a 25-mile radius of Rockford, IL. To be eligible, students must be enrolling in a trade or vocation program for the Fall 2025-2026 academic year. The program recognizes the increasing demand for skilled professionals and provides a foundation for students taking the next step in their career path. Eligible students are encouraged to apply today through September 16, 2025. Awardees will be notified by October 16, 2025. Further details and the online application portal can be found on About Black & Jones Attorneys at Law Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, located in Rockford, Illinois, focuses its practice in the areas of workers' compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, Veterans' Compensation, and Police and Fire Disability Pension Claims. Serving the people of northern Illinois for 25 years, Black & Jones has a passion for meeting the needs of each client, and their knowledge of the law and experience as advocates for the rights of injured individuals provides positive results and outcomes for their clients. The firm is bilingual, providing English and Spanish speakers access to quality legal care. For more information on Black & Jones, visit
Time Business News
26-06-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Understanding SSD Impairments: A Comprehensive Guide to Qualifying Conditions
When individuals face debilitating conditions that prevent them from maintaining gainful employment, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can provide essential financial support. The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains strict criteria for determining eligibility based on the severity and impact of specific health issues. Below, we delve into the various aspects of SSD impairments, including eligibility requirements and evidence needed to build a strong case. Keep reading to gain deeper insights into the SSD application process. Qualifying for SSD benefits hinges on whether an individual's condition meets the SSA's definition of disability. The primary criterion is whether an impairment is severe enough to prevent a person from performing any substantial gainful activity. The duration of the impairment is also a critical factor, as the condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. Periodic reviews are conducted to ensure continued eligibility for those who receive benefits. During these reviews, changes in medical condition and the ability to work are evaluated. Eligibility for SSD benefits can be confirmed by referring to the SSA's list of impairments, commonly known as the Blue Book. This detailed guide outlines the specific criteria for numerous medical conditions that are considered disabling. It is a key resource for understanding the types of impairments SSD covers. Medical evidence forms the cornerstone of any SSD claim. The SSA requires objective documentation, such as medical records, lab results, and doctors' reports, to substantiate the presence and severity of an impairment. Without this evidence, the likelihood of benefits approval is significantly diminished. For a successful claim, the evidence must not only confirm the existence of the condition but also detail how it limits work-related functions. The focus is on the practical repercussions of the impairment on the claimant's daily life and working capacities. Descriptions of symptoms, treatments, and response to therapy are integral to this assessment. In some cases, the SSA may request additional information or a consultative exam to gather missing details. These exams are conducted by independent medical professionals and are funded by the SSA. Their purpose is to provide an objective assessment of the claimant's medical status. The spectrum of impairments that potentially qualify for SSD benefits is broad and encompasses various categories, including musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular conditions, and mental disorders, among others. Each category has its own set of diagnostic criteria established by the SSA. Musculoskeletal disabilities, such as severe spine disorders or amputations, are prevalent among SSD claimants. These conditions must demonstrate a significant restriction in movement and functional capacity. Equally critical are mental disorders, which include conditions like schizophrenia, depression, and autism, requiring meticulous documentation of symptoms' impact on cognitive and social functioning. Chronic illnesses, like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, also frequently qualify for SSD when they impose substantial limitations on an individual's ability to sustain employment. Respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can limit an individual's physical endurance, are also covered under SSD programs. Applying for SSD benefits can be an intricate and lengthy process. Before filing a claim, individuals should gather comprehensive medical evidence and prepare to provide detailed information about their work history and the limitations caused by their impairment. The initial application is the first step, wherein claimants submit all requisite documentation to the SSA. It's advisable to review the application carefully to avoid common pitfalls that could lead to denial. Incomplete information or lack of adequate medical evidence are frequent reasons for initial rejections. If an application is denied, there is an appeals process with multiple stages, including reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, and reviews by the Appeals Council or even federal court. During these stages, claimants may present new evidence or clarify previous information. Given the complexities of the process, many claimants elect to seek the assistance of an attorney specializing in disability law. Legal professionals can offer guidance and advocacy throughout the claims process, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome. Overall, understanding and fulfilling the eligibility criteria for SSA's SSD list of impairments is pivotal to receiving the necessary support when facing a disabling condition. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Listly
21-06-2025
- Health
- Listly
Top 5 Reasons Social Security Disability Cases are Denied
-1- Lack of sufficient documentation – Social Security Disability Insurance 90% of cases are denied due to lack of documents and records to back up your case. The Social Security Administration (SSA) may have requested your records and other reports directly from the hospital or from other sources, but it may not receive all the documents needed. It is important for you to provide all medical records and other reports that SSA may need in order to establish the strength of your claim. -2- Failure to cooperate Refusing to provide additional documents and records is probably not a good choice. You may have reasons for not providing the documents that are requested you, but you need to provide these to the SSA if you want to be granted social Security Disability Insurance. Similarly, the SSA may need you to undergo a consultative examination (CE) through a doctor they choose. You may need to attend a CE to provide them with substantial information about your medical condition. -3- Failure to follow treatment In some cases, you may opt not to attend therapy or undergo treatment for your condition. This may be justified for medical reasons, such as when you are physically unable to undergo it without aid or assistance, or when you have a severe mental illness and cannot comply with therapy. There are also other justifiable non-medical excuses such as when you do not have money to undergo treatment. When you have the ability to follow a prescribed therapy, and when the treatment you refused to follow is one that can restore your ability to work, you may be denied your social security disability. -4- Income that exceeds sustainable gainful activity (SGA) The SSA grants the Social Security Disability Insurance to individuals who are unable to work and support their daily needs. The SGA limit is $1,000 per month. If you are working and you are earning $1,000 per month, then your claim will be denied. -5- Failure to communicate The Disability Determination Service (DDS) is responsible for determining your eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance. If the DDS is unable to communicate with you or with your legal representative, then your claim may be denied. You will need to give them as much contact information as you can provide, and notify them if you changed your address or telephone numbers. If you or a loved one feel you have been wrongly denied Social Security Disability insurance after a work-related injury, you may want to speak with a Rhode Island personal injury attorney regarding a potential claim. Please contact a Social Security Disability Lawyers in RI at the Law Offices of d'Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation. d'Oliveira & Associates Woonsocket 345 North Main St. Woonsocket, RI 02895 (401) 762-4006
Associated Press
18-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Berger and Green: Committed Partner in Match Madness, Doubling Donations for the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley
03/17/2025, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania // PRODIGY: Feature Story // The 5th Annual Match Madness campaign is back and kicked off on March 1, 2025. Thanks to the partnership and commitment of Berger and Green, every donation made to the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley during March will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $20,000.00. A new addition to this year's campaign, will have the first 125 donors entered into the Match Madness bracket for a chance to win four tickets to a Washington Wild Things game of their choice. A winner will be selected on April 1, 2025. The theme 'Raised Here. Stays Here.' emphasizes investing in local communities. Funds will support over 30 programs across seven counties, providing essential services like food, shelter, education and healthcare. Berger and Green 's commitment to the region goes beyond this fundraiser. The firm has long been dedicated to serving the legal needs of Ohio Valley residents, particularly those seeking assistance with Social Security Disability (SSD) claims. As a trusted law firm in the area, they help individuals navigate the often complex SSD process to secure the benefits they deserve. Berger and Green is committed to ensuring that those who need help with their SSD claims receive the support that they need. 'We take great pride in serving the Ohio Valley and supporting local families in securing their Social Security Disability benefits,' said Amanda Bonnesen, Managing Partner at Berger and Green. If you would like to learn more about Berger and Green's community involvement, you can contact Nicole Meta at 412-661-1400. Media Contact Company Name: Berger and Green [email protected].
USA Today
22-02-2025
- General
- USA Today
16 Social Security facts that all divorced spouses should know about benefits
16 Social Security facts that all divorced spouses should know about benefits Divorce may be complicated, but Social Security benefits after divorce are simpler than you might think. Keep reading to learn about how exes collect. Show Caption Hide Caption Social Security Admin. commissioner steps down over DOGE request The acting head of the Social Security Administration reportedly stepped down over DOGE requests to access sensitive government data. Straight Arrow News Divorce is rarely a straightforward experience. There's bound to be a flurry of emotions. In addition, there are practical issues to work through, like how marital belongings will be divided and where children or pets will reside. Social Security benefits may not be one of your top concerns as you divorce, but it's good to understand how they work — even when you're an ex-spouse. The requirements According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may be entitled to Social Security benefits based on an ex-spouse's work history if you meet the following criteria: You're at least 62 If you're under full retirement age (FRA) but care for a child younger than age 16 or a child with a disability who is entitled to benefits based on your ex-spouse's record You are currently unmarried If you've remarried since your divorce, you can only collect benefits on your former spouse if the subsequent marriage ended by annulment, divorce, or death. You're divorced from someone entitled to Social Security retirement or Social Security Disability benefits You were married to your ex for a minimum of 10 years If your ex isn't claiming Social Security benefits yet, you must be divorced for at least two years before applying. Curious details worth knowing As with all financial decisions, the goal is to benefit your bottom line. It helps to be aware of the details. For example: If you're entitled to benefits based on your work record, the benefit amount you would receive based on your ex- spouse's record must be higher. If your ex died after you divorced, you're still eligible to collect widow's benefits. If you were born before Jan. 2, 1954, you can take advantage of a "restricted application," a strategy that allows you to collect Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse's work record while allowing your retirement benefit to accumulate delayed retirement credits. For example, you may decide to collect on your ex's benefits at age 62 and let your benefits continue to grow until age 70, then switch to those. Your ex-spouse will not be informed that you're receiving ex-spouse benefits. Any benefits you receive will not impact your ex's benefits, or if they're remarried, that of their new spouse. How much you can receive Effective planning requires knowing how much money you can expect to bring in each month. Based on an ex-spouse's work record, here's how much you can expect to receive. The maximum Social Security spousal benefit you're eligible to collect is 50% of the amount your ex-spouse would collect at (FRA). The current FRA for anyone turning 62 in 2025 is 67 years old. There is no increase to your spousal benefit, even if your ex works beyond FRA. If your ex retires at 62, your payment will be 32.5% of their benefit at FRA. You can't collect Social Security benefits based on your work record and your ex-spouse's work record. Let's say you'll be eligible for a monthly Social Security benefit of $800, but your ex-spouse will be eligible for a $2,000 monthly benefit once they reach FRA. At FRA, you'll receive your $800 benefit plus an additional $200 payment to bring you to your $1,000 spousal benefit. (Remember, the most you can receive as an ex-spouse is 50% of your former spouse's full FRA benefit.) It's natural to have questions about Social Security and everything, from when you should begin collecting to how much you'll receive, may feel like a puzzle. However, there's nothing puzzling about whether you should collect benefits based on an ex's work record. If doing so nets you more money each month, you owe it to yourself to take advantage of the situation. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. The Motley Fool is a USA TODAY content partner offering financial news, analysis and commentary designed to help people take control of their financial lives. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY. The $ 22,924 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook Offer from the Motley Fool: If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known "Social Security secrets" could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $22,924 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. Simply click here to discover how to learn more about these strategies. View the "Social Security secrets" »
