In many cases, the answer is yes. An administrative law judge (ALJ) will decide cases based on the medical evidence in the file – this includes x-rays and other imaging exams, lab panels, treatment notes, and written statements from the claimant and the claimant’s treating physicians, and likely your testimony. Your testimony is offered with…
In a simple word – Yes. In most cases, your addiction will be used (rightfully so) to discredit your testimony and the medical evidence in your case. If you are suffering from major depressive disorder and an addiction to alcohol, a judge may say that if you stop drinking and receive treatment for your addiction, you would no longer feel…
Complete the questionnaire right away and provide truthful and specific answers! You only have a limited time to comply (10 days from the date of the letter) with Social Security’s request so, don’t delay. But, don’t rush through your answers either. As you complete the form, keep the following in mind: Be honest. Don’t exaggerate, but be specific about…
As the jobs picture in many parts of Louisiana continues to be depressed, many of my clients are filing for disability but have also applied for unemployment benefits. In many hearings, my SSDI clients are being asked by judges if they have filed for unemployment benefits. The issue for your disability case is this: when…
At most New Orleans Social Security Disability Hearings and Metairie Disability Hearings, a vocational expert testifies about the occurrence of occupations for a person given your limitations. The VE will listen to the testimony and respond to questions from the judge and your attorney (or yourself). Can you derive any clues from the VE testimony…
I get a lot of questions about fibromyalgia and other medical conditions that rely on subjective reporting by patients. These cases are more difficult to win due to a lack of objective medical evidence. A typical question I receive is as follows: “I’m 44 yrs old and have been suffering for many years with fibromyalgia…
Many Louisiana Social Security Disability applicants may be asking this question right now. A denied claim is not the end of the road; you have the right to appeal. Here’s how the process works: In Louisiana, upon receiving your denial letter, you have 60-days to file a Request for Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge…
I recently came across an article that many of you may find useful. It is titled “7 New Social Security Rules for 2013.” The impacts are: 1) More online services 2) Reduced office hours at your local Social Security Offices 3) Direct deposit requirement (no more paper checks) 4) Higher earnings limits for retirees 5)…
I was recently asked whether a young child who was recently diagnosed with cancer would be eligible to receive disability benefits, specifically, the parents wanted to know whether they could obtain cash benefits to help with medical costs and/or Medicare/Medicaid benefits. The answer to this question depends on the specific circumstances of the child’s case…
One of my Metairie social security disability clients called last week and asked whether her impending marriage would affect her disability benefits. While I was able to answer her question quickly, her question made me think of the others out there thinking the same thing. The answer to this question is a little tricky because…