A short-term disability does not qualify as a disability for either SSDI or SSI benefits. But you do have other options. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has two disability programs that offer benefits to individuals with disabilities: SSDI pays benefits to individuals with disabilities and certain members of their families if they have worked long […]
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What Role Does a Vocational Expert Play in Disability Benefits?
If you are in the process of applying for disability benefits, you may be a bit confused by the entire system. Like most federal government agencies, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has an overwhelming number of rules, regulations — and acronyms. Understanding more about the system can help you as you go from initial application […]
Continue ReadingERISA Claims and Appeals Process & Procedures
If your employer offers long-term disability benefits, it will typically be covered by a federal law known as ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). ERISA sets minimum standards for benefit plans in the private sector, offering a number of protections for individuals enrolled in these plans. In addition to grievance procedures and appeals processes, ERISA […]
Continue ReadingHow Does VA Disability Back Pay Work?
If you served in the military and suffered a disability as a result of your service, you may be entitled to benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides disability benefits veterans who have a current illness or injury that either began or was made worse during their service. A veteran must have been discharged […]
Continue Reading2022 VA Disability Rates
Military service comes with many rewards — and its fair share of risks. For many veterans, service in a branch of the military leads to lifelong disability due to an illness or injury. If that disability was connected to their service, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will typically pay benefits. Like many types of […]
Continue ReadingUnum Disability Claim Denials
Disability insurance can be incredibly important. This type of policy, offered in both short-term and long-term versions, provides benefits in the event that you are unable to work due to an illness or injury. Having disability insurance can remove the burden of financial stress at a time when you should be focusing on your health. […]
Continue ReadingHow Long Do Long-Term Disability Benefits Last?
While many of us would like to believe that we are infallible, the reality is that we are all human. No matter how healthy you may be, there is no guarantee that you will remain that way. In fact, approximately 25% of 20 year olds can expect to be out of work for at least […]
Continue ReadingDo Long-Term Disability Benefits Have to Be Paid Back If I Start Receiving Social Security?
If you become disabled due to an illness or injury, you may look to two different forms of benefits to support you financially while you are unable to work: long-term disability (LTD) insurance and Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). Each type of benefit has an important role to play for people with disabilities. Together, they […]
Continue ReadingWhat Medical Conditions Qualify for Long-Term Disability?
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance coverage is typically offered by your employer as part of a compensation package, although you can also purchase a plan directly from an insurance broker. LTD insurance protects you in the event of total or partial disability based on a qualifying condition through your policy. In short, if you are unable […]
Continue ReadingDifference Between SSI and SSDI
SSDI vs. SSI – When dealing with the federal government, it isn’t uncommon to hear a lot of acronyms. It can easily become confusing, especially when you are new to the system: SSA, SSI, ALJ, CDR, SSDI. What do they all mean and what is the difference between SSDI vs. SSI? Difference Between Social Security […]
Continue ReadingWhat Is the Difference and Choosing Between Long-Term Disability and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Finding yourself partially or totally disabled has devastating effects on your body and mind. Fortunately, there are resources and benefits for people who are unable to work due to an injury or medical condition. The most commonly used benefits are long-term disability insurance and Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). Both programs have their benefits and […]
Continue ReadingSocial Security Disability Hearings and Appeals Offices in NJ And PA
The Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) oversees hearings and making decisions on social security disability claims. There are currently three offices that serve residents of New Jersey and eight offices that serve residents of Pennsylvania. Each office holds hearings in front of administrative law judges (ALJs) that conduct hearings and impart decisions on social security […]
Continue ReadingCan I Be Fired While on Disability Leave?
If you take leave from your job due to a disability, the last thing that you want to worry about is whether your job will be waiting for you when you return. Yet far too often, individuals who are out on disability leave find themselves in a precarious position when it comes to their employment. […]
Continue ReadingNew Jersey, Pennsylvania, & National Disability Statistics
Health is something that many of us take for granted. Yet for individuals with disabilities, having a medical or mental health problem can affect daily life in dramatic ways. As our health status can change in an instant, understanding more about disability is vital to our overall safety and well-being. Disability Across the United States […]
Continue ReadingInsurance Companies Using Surveillance to Deny Disability Claims: Is It Legal?
Many of us view our insurance policies as something that is always there to protect us, and our insurers as an extension of that protection. Yet in reality, insurance companies are a business. Their job is to make a profit — not to give away money. Insurance companies that offer long-term disability insurance are no […]
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