Regardless of the cause, people who are unable to support themselves because of physical or mental disabilities may be eligible for benefits from the SSA. The process usually requires the applicant to completely fill out an official application for benefits. He or she should include a statement regarding the injury and should send copies of medical records and work-history. In many cases, the SSA will need to see the person’s work history to determine if they qualify for compensation.

When it comes to assessing the disability itself, the SSA may need to examine the person’s medical history and hold hearings to determine the level of disability versus the person’s ability to work. If it is determined that the individual does fit the criteria for compensation, his or her application will be approved and payments will be issued.

Unfortunately, the application process can be very time-consuming and the applicant may be forced to wait several months before receiving any money from the government. The adjudication and review process can take several months, and there may be a significant delay between the application time and the time the first payment arrives.

It is recommended that persons who wish to receive benefits apply immediately following their disability diagnosis. This way, the individual can get the process started right away and hopefully begin receiving payments in a shorter amount of time. If the person delays with the application, he or she may find themselves in financial trouble even after the application has been accepted.

Fortunately, the SSA will issue back-payments to applicants who are accepted into the disability program. Back-dated payments will be issued for payments missed during the application process, and may be paid in installments or a single “lump-sum”. This may help the person regain the expected compensation and may help ease his or her financial struggles significantly.

If you would like to know more about applying for Social Security benefits or if you have been wrongly denied disability payments, contact the Indianapolis Social Security disability attorneys of the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C.

Joseph Devine

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You and becoming handicapped?

If you are younger than 65, your chances of becoming long-term handicapped due to an accident or disease are double than the chances that you will die because of these causes. Naturally the chances of becoming handicapped gradually raises with age:

* out of every 100 children up to 14 years, 3 are classified as handicapped

* 4% of young people between 15 and 24 years become handicapped

* 7 in 100 adults between 25 to 44 become handicapped

* 17% of adults between 45 and 64 years become handicapped

* 40% of adults of 65 years and older become handicapped

* out of every 100 adults over 75 years, 53 are handicapped

The current numbers tell us that right now, about 14% of Canadians are classified as handicapped, which is some 4.4 million in real numbers.

What are the benefits of disability insurance?

There are different people who have different needs and encounter different situations, therefore the selection of different types of insurance is quite rich. Life insurance, for example, is offered to guarantee a sufficient cash coverage for those that are hit by the sudden loss not only emotionally, but also financially. In the opposite case, after someone becomes (completely) handicapped, the first problem is his/her not being able to keep earning a sufficient income for themselves and the whole family. Moreover, there are even higher expenses related to the extra medical and other care the person suddenly needs, which means even more of a financial trouble for the family of the person who was once able to support him/herself and now needs specialized care. So we can see that a good disability insurance can help you deal with even more problems than a life insurance. Nevertheless, there are different definitions of disability, meaning that some handicapped people are able to have some kind of a job, but the numbers tell us that some 15% of people filing for bankruptcy are giving illness or accident as a reason. There are some government contributions available for handicapped people, however limited they might be. The coverage group plans don’t help to keep your current income either, as they usually cover between 50% and 60% of the previous net income.

If you are thinking about getting for disability insurance, first think about the possibilities you would have in case you couldn’t earn a sufficient amount of money.

You could:

* place the confidence in your spouse/family

* use your savings or retirement funds

* get rid of your property or other assets

* get a loan

* get a sufficient income from a disability insurance instead of your previous salary

Lorne S. Marr has been a very accomplished financial planner since 1993 and runs his own Toronto life insurance company LSM Insurance Services Ltd. He’s recognized as an industry leader thanks to the commitment to providing clients with value-added services.

Lorne has also been a keynote speaker at numerous industry functions and has appeared in The National Post, The Toronto Sun, the Investment Executive, The Advisor’s Edge and the Insurance Journal. Don’t forget to visit his website http://www.lsminsurance.ca

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Many people think that the disability insurance provided by their employer will be enough, but most of these policies have a maximum amount that they pay out per month, which is usually about 60 percent of your salary or even less if you have a pretty high salary since there is a cap on how much they will pay. Also, the benefits you get from work are taxed, so you will end up with even less than the 60 percent you might be expecting. A supplemental policy might be necessary in order to meet all of your expenses. Check into the insurance that is provided by your employer to see what the terms and conditions are so you are prepared should something happen.

Some people think that since they have a desk job they are not likely to be injured, or that since they are young they don’t need disability insurance. However, a lot of people in their 30s end up using this type of insurance each year. Usually these policies cover illnesses and difficult pregnancies as well as accidents, so they are just as useful (or more useful) for younger individuals as they are for older individuals.

People also tend to think that they don’t need to pay out of their pocket for disability insurance because they will be able to get money from workers comp or social security disability insurance benefits. However, money from these sources is not available for all of the conditions that are covered under insurance for disability. Social security requires you to be out of work for a long time and is very difficult to get approved for, and workers comp only covers workplace injuries, not illnesses or pregnancy.

Rick enjoys writing articles on a wide variety of topics and interests. Come visit his latest website over at bed in a bag clearance which helps people find the best bedding in a bag and information they need to make a wise decision about bedroom furnishings.

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Persons may become disabled in many different ways and for many different reasons. Disability may come from accidents, illnesses, or may arise at birth. Some people find that they are still able to perform the duties required by their employer, while others may not be able to work or support themselves or their loved ones. In such cases, the person may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.

Benefits are typically paid to individuals who need financial support and are unable to perform work due to their affliction. Persons seeking disability compensation must follow the application process and may need to show their needs in court. Once disability benefits have been granted, the person may be able to receive monthly payments from the SSA.

Relatives like spouses, children, legal dependents, divorced spouses, and disabled children may be eligible for compensation from the SSA as well. These individuals can usually expect to collect a certain percentage of the disabled individual’s monthly allowance, and the amount may depend on how many members are claiming benefits and how long the disabled individual worked prior to claiming disability.

With all of the factors surrounding disability claims, relatives may at least be able to gain some financial support from the Social Security Administration. Typically, family members may be able to expect up to 50% of the disabled individual’s monthly rate. This number may be adjusted depending on how many people wish to claim benefits under the applicant’s program. If five family members can make a claim for benefits, naturally, the amount each may receive will probably be significantly lower than if only one individual requests compensation from the SSA.

If you have been denied Social Security compensation or if you would like help with your disability claim, it may be wise to consult an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. For more information on family benefits claims and disability benefits, visit the website of the Indianapolis Social Security disability attorneys of the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C.

Joseph Devine

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If the latter happens, how would you pay your bills? If you have a family, how would you support them?

This is the very reason why more and more people are opting for individual disability insurance. They are preparing themselves for that situation. If that does happen, then they are prepared.

Individual disability insurance replaces a percentage of your salary if you become an invalid or disabled. Either way, you cannot work. If you don’t have this, you may spend your savings. You might even dig into your retirement fund or what you’ve allotted for your children college fees.

Having an individual disability insurance means you don’t have to get the funds from your everyday expenses to pay for your debt. You can still earn even when you’re not working.

This is the very reason why employees work for corporations that offer this kind of benefit. They see the individual disability insurance as some kind of health plan. It’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

At least with the individual disability insurance, one does not have to worry where to get the finances to pay for the mortgages, daily expenses, and other bills – even when one is not working.

But before you sign up for any individual disability insurance from an insurance company, you should be smart enough to get the facts straight. Make sure what their coverage is and how many percentage they would get from your salary.

If you are comfortable with their policies and believe that you will not be in the losing end, then go for it.
You can also speak to a licensed financial professional to guide you in this agreement that you will make. Have him explain the benefits and policy provisions.

Since this will involve a deduction from your payroll, you should know where your money goes right? If there are exclusions in the contract, check which ones apply.

If the policy gives you with the basic hospital needs in addition to the individual disability insurance (some insurance companies do that), check whether they are offering the basic medical insurance or major medical insurance.

You wouldn’t have a hard time determining this because it is already indicated in the policies.

Discover where to get cheap individual disability insurance quotes online. Learn where to get cheap disability health insurance at my site.

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#1: What are your options if you want to hire representation?

Typically, there are two major types of paid SSDI representatives: specialized organizations, which has multiple representatives and specialists experienced in handling SSDI claims in local communities across the country and law firms that may or may not have attorneys solely dedicated to SSDI claims.

#2: How knowledgeable and experienced is the organization in representing individuals applying for SSDI?

You should look for a representative who specializes in SSDI and understands the complexities and nuances of the process. Don’t be fooled if a representative tries to impress you with his or her local influence.

#3: Will the organization help you file the initial application for SSDI?

The myth that you cannot have a representative help you file your initial application for SSDI may stem from the fact that many attorneys only accept SSDI clients after their initial applications are denied.

#4: What specific activities will the representative undertake on your behalf?

It’s important to choose a representative who consistently works the claim on your behalf throughout the process and removes the burden from you. For example, ask: – Will you contact my doctors and collect or update medical records for my file independently of the SSA? – Will you regularly query the SSA for status of my claim or confirm my claim file is up-to-date? Your representative also should be following up with the SSA regularly to ensure your claim is in order.

#5: Does the organization have experience representing someone with your disability?

Not all disabilities are alike-the SSA has specific Disability Impairment Criteria for hundreds of specific conditions, from AIDS to strokes. It’s essential to prepare each case with details and in the language required by the SSA to avoid unnecessary delays, a reduced award or denial of benefits.

#6: How does the organization – and who within the organization – will keep you informed on the progress of your claim?

Disability applicants should make sure that the representation organization they choose will keep them regularly updated on the progress of their application, including timely notices of deadlines, documents required or scheduled hearings. You shouldn’t select a local representative based on the belief that you’re going to have regular in-person meetings with the representative because you may find after the initial meeting that the representative is no longer available to you. Knowing the communication approach of the representative you choose is essential in making sure you’re not disappointed.

#7: Will you have to attend any hearings?

Approximately one-quarter of SSDI cases proceed to the hearing level before an administrative law judge. However, this might not be necessary if the representative asks for and receives an “on-the-record” decision, where the judge makes a decision based on a review of information in the file.

#8: What is the organization’s success rate?

No organization has a 100-percent track record, but you should look for a representative with a high success rate in gaining SSDI benefits for its clients. This indicates the representative not only can deliver the desired result, but also probably has a powerful credibility in the industry.

#9: How much faster can the organization help you win your award?

There is no guaranteed timeline. External factors, including the growing disability backlog at the SSA in processing claims, can affect the timing. But a representative should know on average how long it takes their customers to get through the various stages of the SSDI process. How fast you get through the process matters because it gives you access sooner to the SSDI award you need to pay for daily living expenses, and could lower your representation fee.

#10: What does it cost?

The SSA determines the maximum fee that any organization can charge for SSDI representation. Currently, it is 25 percent of the retroactive dollar amount awarded, not to exceed $6,000. You should not pay a fee if you don’t receive your SSDI award. Ask a representative about items in addition to representation, such as travel or medical records.

Allsup is a nationwide provider of Social Security disability, Medicare and workers’ compensation services for individuals, employers and insurance carriers. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009, Allsup employs about 600 professionals who deliver specialized services supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible. The company is based in Belleville, Ill., near St. Louis.

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Since the determinations regarding benefits are made by a government agency, the bureaucratic hoops through which a disabled person must jump are considerable. The filing process is lengthy, and the vast majority of claims are denied upon receipt and review of the initial application for benefits. Commonly, these rejections are due to minor procedural and clerical errors of the submitted claim. But although they can be easily corrected once the problems are drawn to your attention, it still may delay the final approval and distribution of benefits for months, forcing your family to dig deep into savings if you have them.

The Quirks of the Filing Process

One key distinction between the workers’ compensation system and the SSDI benefits scheme as that eligibility for SSDI benefits does not require that your injury have been sustained in the workplace or in the performance of work related tasks. This is a fact that is often confused by workers who are unfamiliar with the structures in place to protect them if they become seriously hurt and one that is essential to ensuring that the appropriate steps are taken in the time allotted by the law. Some important statistics about the disability process to bear in mind are:

* Approximately 30 % of claims are initially approved
* 15 % more are approved upon application for reconsideration
* Nearly 60 % of claims that reach the hearing phase after appeals are approved
* It can be more than 18 months from your initial filing until a final determination is made

The length of anticipated disability, as well as the rated degree of disability ascertained through a formal medical evaluation with an approved physician, determines how long you can receive benefits and at what level you will be compensated for them. Temporary benefits are available when there is an expectation that you will be unable to work for a year or more, and permanent benefits are available when there is no likely recovery.

For Help with Your Filing

To prevent costly filing errors and to present the strongest case possible, it is advisable to work with a skilled and experienced attorney. Contact the Raleigh disability lawyers of Scudder & Hedrick, P.L.L.C., to take the next step.

Joseph Devine

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People with chronic, debilitating disabilities and illnesses often face overwhelming difficulties due to their unfortunate medical condition(s). Aggravating the problem, living on no income or a reduced income can keep these individuals from receiving the healthcare they deserve. This article looks at the confusion surrounding applying for SSDI benefits and shows how Social Security disability benefits can make a huge difference in people’s lives.

Expert Advice Is Key

All conditions and illnesses covered by Social Security disability benefits have certain criteria that deem a person eligible or not. This is why expert advice from a professional company is crucial to receiving an award. For example, a person with AIDS may receive SSDI benefits due to the symptoms of AIDS, including neurological and hematological abnormalities.

Medical conditions like fibromyalgia, bulging discs, anxiety, skin and sleep disorders, chronic liver disease, diabetes, and others can qualify a person for Social Security disability benefits. It’s always in your best interest to find out if you might qualify to receive SSDI benefits before you start the application process. Unfortunately, if you don’t understand the application process, you may not receive your entitled benefits. Luckily, a professional SSDI representation expert has the expertise necessary to ensure you receive the maximum Social Security disability benefits possible.

Qualifying for SSDI

The eligibility, application, and awarding of SSDI benefits processes baffle most people and rightly so. While basic determining factors can give a person an initial look at the possibility of qualifying during the application process, professional companies have a far better likelihood of success. Unfortunately, individuals unfamiliar with the complexities of the process don’t usually fare as well as those who consult an expert. A professional company can keep the process simple, eliminating frustration, confusion, stress, and time wasted on lengthy appeals.

Determining eligibility for Social Security disability benefits involves a step-by-step process. First, you must have held gainful employment where you paid into the Social Security Administration program for five of the last 10 years. You must become disabled and unable to work prior to reaching your retirement age, which has a range of 65 to 67. You also must qualify as disabled due to illness or debilitating disability under the SSA’s definitions. A professional SSDI representative stays up-to-date on the recent changes and additions to these definitions and is familiar with this complicated evaluation and application process.

The first questions asked by the Social Security Administration are about income and employment for five of the last 10 years. If a person engages in “substantial gainful activity” and earns more than $980 per month, they do not qualify for SSDI benefits. Next, they factor in the severity of a person’s disability and the extent to which it interferes with job performance. In addition, the disability must either meet or exceed a suitable medical listing.

The Social Security Administration then evaluates work the applicant performed in the past despite the disability, denying SSDI benefits if an applicant demonstrates they can still work. However, if an applicant cannot perform their job, the Social Security Administration evaluates his or her work experience, age, mental and physical status, and education to determine if the applicant can perform another type of work.

What SSDI Provides

After being a productive and self-sufficient worker, many individuals with debilitating illnesses and disabilities find themselves at a loss as to how to function in their daily lives. SSDI benefits provide a regular monthly income and annual increases generally tied to the rise in the cost of living. Recipients also receive Medicare medical benefits 24 months after cash entitlement to Social Security disability benefits. Medicare includes Part A hospital benefits, Part B medical benefits and Part D prescription drug coverage, plus the option of choosing from several Medicare Advantage plans. Those qualifying for benefits also may receive an 11-month extension of their COBRA benefits.

The complex process of applying for Social Security disability benefits often prevents qualified people from receiving their SSDI benefits. However, individuals can increase the likelihood of receiving an award by consulting a professional SSDI benefits company that can help protect long-term disability, retirement and dependent benefits. A professional claims services company also can make the complicated application process simple and stress free. Once you receive SSDI benefits, you also receive access to return-to-work incentives, which allow you to try returning to work while continuing to receive Social Security disability benefits.

Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, an SSDI benefits representative. They offer a free, no-obligation Social Security Disability Evaluation.

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The first category is statutorial permanent disability. If someone has lost both hands, both arms, both feet, both legs, both eyes, or the permanent and complete loss of the use of any of those body parts, such an injury would be classified as statutorial permanent disability, entitling the injured worker to benefits. Even if the individual is able to work after the injury, he or she can still receive these benefits. For example, if you lost both legs, or the use of them, but are able to continue in your job as a bookkeeper, you can still receive permanent disability benefits.

The second category is permanently and totally disabled. If a medical doctor indicates that an individual has permanent restrictions such as severe back, neck or leg problems where movement is restricted and the individual is unable to do many normal activities of daily life, such an injury would be classified as permanent and totally disabled. So, after you see a doctor and he or she states what your permanent restrictions are, your employer’s insurance company may ask you to undergo an independent medical examination to confirm that you are restricted in such a way.

The third category is called odd-lot permanent total. If a medical doctor states that an individual has permanent medical restrictions (e.g. unable to lift over 20 pounds, must rest for 20 minutes every two hours, etc.), this could be classified as odd-lot permanent total. The individual would go through vocational rehabilitation where a vocational counselor interviews the individual and assesses his or her skills. Based on that assessment and other factors such as age, education, job history, life expectancy, language skills, etc., the counselor determines whether there is a stable job market for the person. If none exists, the injury is classified as odd-lot permanent total.

After an injury of any kind, your first priority should be to obtain medical attention. Then, based on the type of injury you sustained, a worker’s compensation attorney can assist you in obtaining permanent disability benefits.

Some of the things you will consider with the help of your attorney will be whether to accept a lump sum settlement or ongoing weekly benefits. Factors affecting your decisions will include future medical expenses and legal costs.

Depending on your injury, age, overall health and other factors, you and your attorney should work through a course of action that will best meet your goals.

To learn more visit, http://www.findgreatlawyers.com/ChicagoClaims.htm

Michael Helfand has been an Illinois attorney since 1997 and is founder of http://www.findgreatlawyers.com/WorkersCompensation.htm the leading resource for Illinois lawyer referrals and legal guidance.

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According to the Social Security Administration, seventy percent of the private sector work force has no long term disability insurance. Moreover, three in ten workers entering the work force today will become disabled before retiring. Without a doubt, most people own life insurance to provide income for their loved ones in the event of a premature death. However, death due to the big three: hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes have dropped by thirty-two percent. Disabilities due to these conditions are up by fifty-five percent.

How then can disability insurance provide the type of protection you need. The benefits for this type of insurance will help cover monthly living expenses when you are sick or hurt and unable to work. If you are a small business owner, disability insurance will cover your monthly business overhead expenses until you return. This premium is tax-deductible for the small business owner.

Here are some important things to consider when pondering the purchase of disability insurance:

• Age is a primary factor in determining the premium
• Most disability policies are issued for clients between the ages of 18 and 60.
• And, depending on your case, financial documents may be required.

Knowing this ahead of time will make the process move smoothly and satisfactorily.

Keep up to date with timely financial tips and subscribe to the free newsletter. Visit http://www.youcontrol.blogspot.com Will Barnes is a business-financial consultant and therapist based in Illinois.

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