The most common VA (Veterans Affairs) disabilities
The most common VA (Veterans Affairs) disabilities vary by military branch due to the different types of duties, environments, and training that members of each branch experience. Here’s a breakdown of the most common VA disabilities: Common Disabilities Across All Branches: Hearing Loss and Tinnitus: One of the most common disabilities for all military branches due to exposure to loud...
What Is TDIU: How to Qualify and Benefits
Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is a VA benefit that helps veterans who can’t work because of service-connected disabilities. It pays at the 100% disability rate, even if a veteran's total rating is less than 100%. When you qualify for TDIU, you’ll receive the same monthly payment as a veteran with a 100% disability rating, even if your actual rating...
What Types of Employer Benefit Plans Are Covered by ERISA?
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) governs various employer-sponsored benefit plans in the U.S. to protect employees' rights to their benefits. ERISA covers several types of employer benefit plans, which can be broadly categorized into two main types: employee welfare benefit plans and employee pension benefit plans. 1. Employee Welfare Benefit Plans These plans are designed to...
Your Guide to Managing SAD with a Disability
Winter can be challenging for those living with a disability, especially during the darker, colder months. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression associated with shorter days and reduced sunlight, can cause fatigue, sadness, and low energy. The good news is that SAD can be managed with proactive steps and the proper support. What Is SAD, and Why Does...
Do Long Term Disability Claims Only Cover Physical Disabilities?
No, long term disability (LTD) claims do not only cover physical disabilities. They can also cover mental health conditions or psychological disorders, as long as the individual meets the policy's criteria for disability. Visit our page to learn more about common medical conditions that lead to long term disability claims. Here are some factors to consider for your Long Term...
7 Tips for people living with lupus
When you’re one of the 1.5 million adults and kids in the United States who have the autoimmune disease lupus, just about every organ and system is affected, from your skin to your brain. Living with lupus can be challenging, but several strategies can help manage the condition, improve quality of life, and reduce flare-ups. Here are 7 tips for...
What are the Pros and Cons of a Lady Bird Deed?
A Lady Bird Deed , also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, is a special legal document used in real estate planning, primarily to transfer property upon the owner's death while avoiding probate. This deed allows the property owner to retain control over the property during their lifetime but automatically transfers ownership to designated beneficiaries upon death. It is...
What are the differences between STD and LTD?
The terms STD (Short Term Disability) and LTD (Long Term Disability) refer to two types of disability insurance coverage, but they differ in their duration, eligibility, and purpose. Here's a breakdown of the key differences: 1. Duration STD (Short Term Disability): Covers a temporary disability lasting a few weeks to several months, usually between 3 to 6 months. It typically...
SSDI Changes For 2025
In order to accommodate those who are already enrolled in the Social Security program and those who join it, the Social Security Administration updates the program annually. The monthly cost of living adjustment (COLA) for those receiving Social Security will increase by 2.5% in 2025. Adjusting benefits to account for inflation and rising living costs is essential. For individuals on...
2024 GERD VA Rating Changes – a Double-Edged Sword for Vets
On May 19, 2024, the VA initiated a new disability rating schedule for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Updates to the GERD VA rating criteria include the addition of a new Diagnostic Code 7206 specifically used to evaluate and rate disability claims for GERD within the Veterans Administration system. These changes will significantly affect the ability of many veterans with this...