Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Seeking Help with Your Social Security Disability Claim but Don’t Want to Pay for a Lawyer? Here’s What You Need to Know about Lawyer Fee Agreements in Michigan Social Security Disability Cases
When a person is rendered disabled by permanently disabling medical impairments and can no longer work their regular job or engage in their activities of daily living like they used to, it can be a very challenging and trying time. Between doctor’s appointments, rehabilitation, dealing with the challenges of daily life, and financial strains,… Read More »
Understanding Who Will Be at Your Social Security Disability Hearing
When preparing for your Social Security Disability hearing, knowing who will be present is crucial to alleviate some anxiety and help you understand the process. Below, we outline the key people you will encounter at your hearing. The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) The most important person in your hearing, aside from you, is the… Read More »
Social Security Administration Introduces New eSignature and Document Upload Features
A More Convenient Way to Submit Documents Online The Social Security Administration (SSA) has launched a new feature that allows applicants to submit forms and evidence electronically through its eSignature/Upload Documents service. This online service streamlines the submission of 50 different forms and nearly 80 types of evidence, making it easier for people to… Read More »
Let the Record Reflect…! The Importance of Medical Records in Your Michigan Social Security Disability Case
Applying for Social Security Disability can be a difficult and confusing challenge. Indeed, many Social Security Disability applicants may find that the Social Security Disability application process is one involving complex rules and regulations, hard-to-understand forms, and a pretzel of a phone tree. However, the Social Security Disability application process becomes even more daunting… Read More »
Can I Work and Still Receive Social Security Disability Benefits? Social Security’s “Substantial Gainful Activity” Determination and Your Michigan Social Security Disability Benefits Case
There is no doubt that the world of Social Security Disability can be a confusing one for many Social Security Disability applicants in Michigan and throughout the United States. Facing potential or current financial struggles, severe impairment, and a process with many steps, deadlines, and rules and regulations, applying for Social Security Disability benefits… Read More »
Social Security Administration Introduces Streamlined Online SSI Application
SSI Application Simplification Effort Begins The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a significant advancement in its ongoing efforts to simplify the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application process. Starting in December, the SSA will launch an online, streamlined application for specific applicants. SSI provides essential monthly payments to individuals with disabilities and older adults… Read More »
Social Security Administration Passes Final Rule, Food Assistance Excluded from Calculations for Supplemental Security Income Eligibility Calculation
In a major victory for many Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income applicants, as well as disability rights groups, the Social Security Administration will implement a final rule that will change the way that food assistance and support is used in determining Supplemental Security Income benefits. According to national news CNBC, the new… Read More »
Earning Credits Towards Social Security Disability Insurance: Eligibility for Retirement Credits Under the U.S. Social Security Program Explained
There is no question that the Social Security Disability Insurance program and the eligibility requirements that must be met in order for a person to be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits are complex, confusing, and difficult to navigate for many, if not most, Social Security Disability applicants. Indeed, with a myriad of administrative… Read More »
Social Security Disability 101: Three Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Michigan SSD Legal Consultation
When a person applies for Social Security Disability benefits in Michigan, it is not always as straightforward and streamlined as they perhaps initially believed (or hoped). Indeed, the truth of the matter is that the Social Security Disability application process is complex, and there are a number of federal administrative rules and regulations to… Read More »
SSD Benefits for Veterans with PTSD: What You Need to Know
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common and serious condition among U.S. military veterans. As of 2023, more than 1.4 million veterans were receiving Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits for PTSD, including over 67,000 new recipients. However, many veterans with PTSD may not realize that they could also be eligible for Social Security Disability… Read More »