Posts by gina
Q. What Type of Physical Ailments are Considered Disabling Under Social Security Law?
A. The Social Security Administration reviews the overall impact of your cumulative ailments in deciding whether you are disabled or not. A review of your age, education, past work experience, and vocational possibilities will all be considered in deciding your disability. The key to the question is whether your overall physical and/or mental health makes…
Read MoreQ. How Much Will I Receive in Social Security Disability Benefits Every Month?
A. The amount of monthly Social Security benefit checks you receive will depend on what type of program you are entitled to. If you are a Supplemental Security Income program recipient, the amount will be based on the financial need you have. If you are a Social Security Disability program recipient, the amount will be…
Read MoreIs Bipolar Disorder a Qualifying Disability for Social Security Disability Benefits?
Bipolar Disorder, also known as Manic Depressive Disorder in the past, is a psychiatric illness characterized by extreme euphoria followed by severe depression. With approximately 5.7 million American adults affected, it falls under the category of mood disorders. If you or someone you know is struggling with Bipolar Disorder and it significantly impairs the ability…
Read MoreCan I Apply for Social Security Disability If I Am Working?
Understanding Social Security Disability and Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Social Security Disability is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to an injury or illness expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. To qualify for these benefits, applicants must demonstrate that they are unable to…
Read MoreThe Disability Claims Process
At the Law Office of Russell Bowling in Franklin, North Carolina, we understand that navigating the disability claims process can be both confusing and overwhelming, particularly when dealing with financial challenges that often accompany the inability to work. Our firm is committed to providing supportive services, doing our utmost to make the Social Security claim…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Qualification Process for Social Security Disability Benefits
Qualifying for Social Security disability benefits, also known as Title II, requires meeting certain criteria. Multiple factors are considered during this process, including: Physical and/or mental issues preventing you from working for a minimum of 12 months An inability to engage in any reasonable job Your age Your level of education Your past work experience…
Read MoreQ. What if My Disability is Caused by Drugs and/or Alcohol?
A. Congress has enacted legislation that imposes significant restrictions on the eligibility for Social Security benefits if substance abuse issues are deemed to be contributing factors to an individual’s disability. While the existing law may seem unfavorable to such claims, consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer who can conduct a thorough analysis of your case may…
Read MoreQ. Why Won’t Social Security Pay for My Disability Without an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing?
A. In North Carolina, only a small number of applicants are awarded benefits before the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing. Prior to the ALJ hearing, Social Security decisions and opinions are frequently made by individuals who have never met or spoken with you. Social Security doctors may offer opinions on your physical condition without conducting…
Read MoreWhat to Expect at a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge
Once your application for reconsideration of your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, you have the right to request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). However, due to the high number of appeals, it may take up to two (2) years for the ALJ hearing to be scheduled. In our local district,…
Read MoreQ. When Can I Expect a Social Security Hearing?
A. Social Security appeals can be a lengthy process, with significant waiting times between each level of appeal. It often takes several months for a decision to be made at each stage. Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing, you will typically receive a notice four to six weeks in advance, and attending the hearing…
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