A class-action lawsuit against the Social Security Administration recently concluded with a $22.7 million settlement. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission approved this settlement, benefiting thousands of government employees. The lawsuit addresses claims of discrimination against black male employees at the SSA office in Baltimore County, Maryland. Allegations of discrimination The lawsuit, initially filed in 2007, alleged that the SSA discriminated against black men through an unfair bonus system. Employees at the GS-14 level and below at the Baltimore County SSA headquarters raised t ..read more

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects daily life. When it becomes too much to bear, working is impossible. Proving you have fibromyalgia is necessary to receive Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. However, doing so can be challenging. Knowing how to tackle the task will make it easier. Learn the symptoms Begin by recognizing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Common frustrations include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties, known as “fibro fog.” Other symptoms are headaches, irritable bowel syndrome and sensitivity to no ..read more

Remote work, once considered a luxury, has become increasingly common in today’s world. With advancements in technology and shifting attitudes toward work-life balance, more companies are embracing remote work options for their employees. While this shift brings numerous benefits, it raises important questions regarding disability claims and eligibility. Challenges and considerations One of the primary considerations of remote work and disability claims is the blurred line between work and home life. In a traditional office setting, it may be easier to differentiate between work-related tasks ..read more

The process of determining eligibility for SSI in California involves various factors. Medical evidence is one that can play a major role. This evidence helps evaluate the severity of an individual’s impairments. It also assesses the impact on the person’s ability to work and perform daily activities. Importance of medical evidence Medical evidence serves as the foundation for many SSI determinations. It provides objective insights into an individual’s physical and mental health conditions. This evidence includes medical records, clinical findings, laboratory results and opinions from health c ..read more

About 8 million Americans have bipolar disorder. This is from National Institutes of Health estimates. Some people with bipolar disorder in California may be able to turn to SSDI for help. Of course, SSDI applicants should provide comprehensive medical documentation to support their claim. Diagnosis confirmation The first step in the SSDI application process is to confirm your diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Medical records from licensed healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists or clinical psychologists, are important. These records should include detailed information about your symptoms ..read more

If you have cancer, you may be wondering if it qualifies you for Social Security Disability benefits. The answer depends on several factors, as having cancer is not an immediate qualification. You must go through as assessment of your health situation, along with ensuring you meet the other SSDI qualification requirements. Assessment To qualify for SSDI, your health situation must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of a disability in that it is either fatal or will impair you for at least 12 months. To determine if your medical condition meets this requirement, the SSA will c ..read more

Social Security Disability Insurance can be a lifeline for those who have disabilities that make them unable to work. However, the application process can be complex, and many applicants have their claims denied. Understanding the common reasons for SSDI claim denials helps applicants navigate the process effectively and increases their chances of success. 1. Insufficient medical evidence A common reason for SSDI claim denials is insufficient medical evidence. The Social Security Administration requires detailed medical documentation to support the claimant’s disability. If medical records fai ..read more

Even though you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, you may be eager to return to the workforce. However, testing your readiness is key to ensuring a smooth transition without risking the loss of benefits. Fortunately, there are practical steps for re-entering the workforce while maintaining SSDI support. Know the rules Familiarize yourself with the SSDI guidelines regarding work and income. Being aware of the specific rules and thresholds, such as Substantial Gainful Activity limits, provides a foundation for evaluating your readiness for employment. Explore Trial Work Periods Take ..read more

HIV viral suppression drugs can reduce the viral load in people’s bodies to undetectable levels, meaning that the virus is not detectable in their blood with standard tests. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, over 50% of those living with HIV use antiretroviral therapy drugs. These medicines have been a game-changer in managing HIV and AIDS, significantly decreasing transmission rates and fatalities. However, do they affect eligibility for Social Security disability benefits? Eligibility for Social Security disability benefits The severity of a person’s condition and its impact ..read more

Janitors and cleaners in California may face physical or mental health challenges that impact their ability to work. In such cases, financial assistance through the SSDI program could be a possibility. However, navigating the process requires a clear understanding of eligibility criteria and procedural nuances. Work requirement criteria The SSA uses a credit-based system, where workers earn credits based on their work history and payment of Social Security taxes. Generally, individuals need 40 credits to qualify, and 20 of those credits must be in the last 10 years leading up to their disabili ..read more