What if I am still working, can I file my claim?
There are some circumstances that allow folks to work part time. The rules regarding employment are complicated and differ between Social Security Disability Benefits and Supplemental Security Income Benefits. Give Mark a call to discuss your claim if you are still working.
What is the difference between a Social Security Disability Claim and a Supplemental Security Income Disability claim?
A Social Security Disability Claim is a claim filed on a social security number where the number holder has paid enough credits into Social Security to be both "fully" insured and "currently" insured. Generally, "fully" insured status means that you have paid enough into Social Security to earn 40 credits over the number holders lifetime. The number of credits may be reduced in the case of a very young person.
Supplemental Security Income is a "means based" program that requires an individual be below a certain asset limit to qualify. It is a form of welfare for those folks who haven't paid enough into Social Security or haven't recently paid benefits into the system.
Supplemental Security Income is a "means based" program that requires an individual be below a certain asset limit to qualify. It is a form of welfare for those folks who haven't paid enough into Social Security or haven't recently paid benefits into the system.
CAN I RECEIVE BOTH SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY AND SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?
Yes. Again the rules are complicated, but it is possible to receive both. Again, you must meet the financial qualifications in order to receive Supplemental Security Disability Benefits.
WHAT IS MEDICARE AND MEDICAID, AND DO I QUALIFY FOR EITHER?
Medicare is the health insurance benefit provided to folks who qualify for Social Security Disability. This program starts about 29 months after you are found to be eligible for benefits (first month of eligibility). Medicaid is provided to folks who qualify for Supplemental Security Disability Benefits. You need only receive one dollar ($1) of Supplemental Security Disability Benefit to qualify for Medicaid. Eligibility generally starts immediately upon a finding of disability and meeting the financial requirements for eligibility.
What if I am a widow or widower, can I File a claim on my deceased spouse's Social Security number?
It is possible to claim on a deceased spouse's number, sometimes even if you are divorced. If you are a widow or widower and have lost a spouse, be sure to let Mark know as there may be special programs you may qualify for through Social Security.
Do I REALLY need an attorney?
Many folks successfully obtain Social Security Disability Benefits without an attorney. The decision to get an attorney will depend on you. If your claim is complicated, or if you are a younger person (under age 55), your claim may be more difficult. We suggest you talk with Mark and get a "gut" feeling about what he tells you about your claim. The most important point to remember is not to miss a deadline for filing your appeal. If that deadline passes, your claim may be denied under certain circumstances.
What about the 1-800 guys on T.V.?
We know there is an advantage to having a local attorney who you can call and meet with in person. We also help people before their claim is at the hearing level. Nothing is worse than meeting your attorney for the first time 10 minutes before your hearing will start. Again, give Mark a call and get a feel for what he has to say about your claim. Calling Mark does not obligate you to use his services. He and his staff are local and reachable.
I live OUT OF STATE, can Mark help me?
Mark is admitted to the Idaho Bar, but can help you with your claim at the Initial, Reconsideration and Hearing level in any state. Mark regularly helps folks in both Montana and Idaho.
Can Mark talk to me over the phone?
Absolutely! Mark can talk with you about your claim over the phone. Mark wants to meet with you before the hearing in person, but if traveling is difficult or too costly your claim can be handled over the phone.
What will I need when I talk with Mark about my claim?
Mark always tells folks that he would rather look at a 100 pages of information that he doesn't need than miss one page he needs. So getting your denial and medical records will help greatly. If you know the date you last worked, it would also be helpful.