Social Security and Medicare Changes — Pluses and Minuses

How will the new laws affect those who are receiving, or will receive, Social Security benefits? In the budget bill President Obama recently signed into law with bipartisan support, some specific changes affecting Medicare and Social Security were included. For those who presently receive benefits from these agencies, or who foresee doing so in the […]

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SSA Announces There Will be No Cost-of-Living Increase in 2016

The cost of living is steadily increasing in virtually every zip code in America. From sprawling urban areas to more remote rural areas, consumers are experiencing a relentless increase in the costs of housing, utilities, food and other necessities — prompting many employers to offer wage raises (though minimal ones) each year to offset the […]

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Potential cuts to SSD Benefits Coming in 2016

What do Social Security cuts mean to disability recipients? Social Security disability benefits could be cut by as much as 20 percent by the end of 2016. A recently released report found the trust fund will be depleted by the fourth quarter of next year, leaving the Social Security Administration with only enough funds to […]

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Chronic Back Pain and Social Security Disability

It might seem surprising that the primary cause of Americans being unable to work is related to back pain. 1 in every 10 individuals suffers from a debilitating condition such as degenerative disc disease, herniated/bulging discs, nerve root compression, spinal stenosis, arachnoiditis or paralysis that affects their daily activities, and ultimately their ability to engage […]

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Rheumatoid Arthritis and Social Security Disability

Over 1.5 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.[1]  Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include: Tender, warm, swollen joints Morning stiffness that may last for hours Firm bumps of tissue under the skin on your arms (rheumatoid nodules) Fatigue, fever and weight loss Early rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect your smaller joints first — […]

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DEPRESSION AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

Depression, like many other mental health disorders, does not always reveal itself in shades of black and white.  Some individuals may respond positively to therapy and medications, while others might not have the same response.  In fact, some individuals may never receive appropriate treatment for a variety of reasons – ranging from lack of health […]

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