F.A.Q.

1. What is Social Security Disability?
2. Who is eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD)?
3. How Can I tell the Difference Between Social Security Disability and Social Security Income?
4. How is entitlement for Disabled Worker’s Benefits made?
5. To how much am I entitled?
6. How do I contact Social Security?
7. Do I need medical evidence to win my SSDI or SSI case?
8. How do I apply for SSD or SSI benefits?
9. If I want to apply for SSDI benefits, what are my next steps?
10. How does Social Security and Medicare Work to help Me?
11. How many times do I have to get turned down by Social Security before I get my benefits?
12. What date should I use for my “Alleged Onset Dater of Disability” when I apply for Social Security Disability?
13. Should I try to work after I have filed for SSDI or SSI?
14. If I have earnings after I apply for SSDI or SSI, should I report them?
15. If I get turned down, how do I appeal my initial Unfavorable Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Special Veterans Benefit (SVB) decision?
16. What administrative actions are initial determinations from which I can file a “Request for Reconsideration” or an appeal?
17. Where can I find these Appeal Forms?
18. Will I have to pay income taxes for the disability benefits I receive?
19. Is Getting SSDI or SSI just a matter of luck or is there a framework that the judge must use in determining whether or not a claimant is disabled?
20. What is the Statutory Framework for Considering a Social Security Disability Claim?
21. What do Disability and Retirement have to do with each other?
22. Can I receive benefits and still work?
23. Before I decide to retire, what should I be considering?
24. What to do if I need even more information?
25. How is entitlement for Disabled Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Divorced Spouse’s Benefits Made?
26. What is my “Alleged Date of Onset of Disability and why is it important to select the correct date?
27. If I am struggling with a physical or mental diagnosis and problem and I am still working part-time, should I file for Social Security Disability or SSI?
28. What is “Substantial Work” and why is it important?
29. Am I eligible for Medicare or Medicaid?
30. Do I need appropriate medical care while my application is pending?
31. How can I tell if I am disabled?
32. What if SSA discourages me from applying or appealing?
33. What if I get turned down?
34. How much can my representative charge me?
35. What about my right to representation?
36. What can an attorney do for me?
37. How should I choose an attorney?
38. When should I contact an attorney?
39. How often should I meet with my attorney during my case?
40. What about costs?
41. What should I know before talking to the SSA?
42. What happens if I try to return to work?
43. Why shouldn’t I just file for my Social Security Retirement Benefits early and not file for Social Security Disability?
44. Can a non-citizen receive Supplemental Security Income benefits?
45. If I don’t have any regular health care, how do I get medical treatment while I am waiting for a decision from the Social Security Administration?
46. If I am disabled or thinking of retiring what are my options and what do I need to consider?
47. If I decide to file for SSDI, will Social Security disability insurance help my dependents?
48. Can’t I just wait or should I apply for Social Security Disability right away?
49. Will I lose my Social Security disability benefits if I return to work?
50. What are my retirement options?
51. How do I apply for retirement benefits?

Social Security Links:

• Social Security Administration
• Social Security Listing of Impairments
• Social Security Administration FAQs
• Compilation of Social Security Laws
• Social Security Handbook
• Social Security Advisory Service
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
• National Institutes of Health
• Medline Plus: Disabilities
• Centers for Disease Control:Disability