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Showing posts from March, 2013

SOCIAL SECURITY ADVOCATES - THEIR MISSION

The following is from NOSSCR, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives.  It explains what Social Security representatives do on behalf of the disabled: Established in 1979, the National Organization of Social Security Claimant's Representatives (NOSSCR) is a professional association of over 4,000 attorneys and other advocates who help individuals with disabilities obtain Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits.   To be eligible for disability benefits, individuals must be unable to engage in "substantial gainful activity" because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted for at least 12 months. NOSSCR members represent these individuals with disabilities in legal proceedings before the Social Security Administration and in federal court.  NOSSCR members are committed to providing high-quality representation for individuals with disabili

Disability Made Easier - After Age 50

Social Security has made it easier to get disability for individuals who are age 50 or over , and who have impairments that make it difficult for them work. Social Security disability rules are easier at age 50 or above.  That's because disabled workers who are older have fewer occupational options than younger workers. My firm handles Social Security disability claims for persons of all ages in Alabama and Tennessee. We give special consideration for individuals who are age 50 or over , who have an impairment that is expected to last 12 months or more, and need disability income. There is no fee to speak with us.  In fact, we never charge a fee unless you collect benefits and get paid a lump sum settlement for back pay.  Call us today.  A local, experienced advocate who understands Social Security disability will be glad to speak with you at no cost or obligation. Visit the Forsythe Firm ON THE WEB HERE THE FORSYTHE FIRM   (256) 799-0297 for our Huntsvi

DISABILITY ANSWERS - TO COMMON QUESTIONS

Question:  Can I apply for Social Security disability while I am still working? Answer:  No - not if you are working at "substantial gainful activity" (SGA) level.  In 2013, SGA level means you are averaging at least $1,040 per month in gross earnings (before tax).  However, if you work part-time and do not gross at least $1,040 per month in earnings, you may eligible to apply for SSA disability while working. Also, the income test applies only to income you earn by work.  It does not usually apply to savings, interest, investment income, etc. which are "non-earned" sources of income. ------------------------------- Need help with a Social Security disability claim?  Pay no fee unless you win your case and collect back pay.  No fee for claim evaluations, consultations or questions.  Contact the Forsythe Firm-- THE FORSYTHE FIRM   (256) 799-0297 for our Huntsville, AL office (615) 732-6159 for our Nashville, Tn office

DON'T HOLD SOCIAL SECURITY HOSTAGE!

I'm not sure anyone understands "sequestration" and all of its political ramifications.  But you cannot watch the news or read the papers without relentless accusations, counter accusations and political posturing to make one political party or the other look good while making the other look bad. Social Security should not be held hostage to politics.  Social Security is the single lifeline that keeps millions of people in the United States from total financial ruin.  And while it is governed by elected officials it should not be subject to prolonged, indecisive political wrangling.  Political leaders from both parties should come together to serve the people whom Social Security was intended to help - and forget about posturing for political advantage.  Social Security is more important than who gets elected in 2016!  The issues transcend, or should transcend political parties. Many of us believe that the Government wastes money and should tighten its fiscal belt.  F

Sequestration and Social Security

Sequestration refers to mandatory cuts in federal spending based upon pre-arranged formulas.  It supposedly went into effect March 1, 2013.  You may have heard that Social Security is not affected, but according to the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR), there will be impacts on Social Security.  Social Security benefits will continue to be paid; however, its operating budget will shrink. Social Security says it will try to avoid any immediate furloughs or layoffs.  As many of you know, Social Security is already under a hiring freeze and is closing district offices to the public earlier each day. Further reduction of operating budget is expected to result in longer waits at Social Security field offices (up to 30 minutes longer).  It may take at least a week longer to get a decision on an initial disability claim.  For each day of sequestration, 3,000 new disability hearings will not take place.  Thus, the progress Social Security has made