“I was denied Social Security disability for the 2nd time. Is there anything I can do?” If you’re asking yourself this question, you’re not alone. Many, many applicants are denied on their initial application and first appeal. The answer to this question is: YES, there is something you can do! At Marc Whitehead & Associates […]
Does Ataxia Qualify For Compassionate Allowance SSDI?
Normally, the decision to approve or deny an SSDI or SSI disability benefits claim can take up to several months. However, there are instances in which an individual’s disabilities are so apparent that the SSA is able to fast track the approval of their claim through its Compassionate Allowances, or CAL, initiative. Serious medical conditions […]
Don’t Give Up When Social Security Disability Denied the First Time Around
A serious injury or medical condition has made it impossible for you to work and earn a living. You file a claim for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). You await their decision. Then you get their response: they’ve denied your social security claim. At Marc Whitehead & Associates we’ve helped quite a […]
Disability Benefits for the Widow, Widower, and Surviving Divorced Spouse
Are you a disabled widow(er) or surviving divorced spouse? You may qualify as early as age 50 for SSDI benefits based on the earning records of your deceased spouse. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has special programs for widows and widowers, and surviving divorced spouses, who are disabled and who wish to qualify for SSDI […]
Getting the Social Security Disability Back Pay You Are Owed
If your claim for Social Security Disability benefits has been approved, you’ll want to make sure you get all the Social Security disability benefits back pay you’re entitled to. When you apply for Social Security disability benefits, it may take several months for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to make a decision in your case. […]
Brain Injury Awareness Month: Disability Benefits for Traumatic Brain Injuries
You might not know it, but March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. Sponsored by the Brain Injury Association of America, Brain Injury Awareness Month seeks to raise awareness about the causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), how to prevent them and the challenges facing those who live with a brain injury. TBIs are head injuries […]
Social Security Disability-Step 1 Substantial Gainful Activity
Social Security Disability claims are evaluated using a Five-Step Sequential Evaluation process defined in the Code of Federal Regulations. In part 1 of our six-part blog series, we gave an overview of the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process used by the Social Security Administration in determining eligibility for benefits under the Social Security Act. Today we review step 1 of the process – Substantial Gainful Activity.
Social Security Disability’s Five Step Sequential Evaluation Process
Social Security Disability claims are determined using a sequential evaluation defined by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. In this six-part blog series, we’ll look at each of the Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process’ used by the Social Security Administration in determining eligibility for benefits under the Social Security Act. Today we review the overall process.
In determining disability, the Social Security Act looks at both the “medical” and “vocational” elements.