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 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)…
What is Fibromyalgia? Can I receive Social Security Disability benefits for Fibromyalgia? Tips for Social Security Disability Application for Fibromyalgia _____________________________________________________ What is Fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects about 5 million Americans. The hallmark of fibromyalgia is muscle pain throughout the body, typically accompanied by: • Fatigue • Sleep problems •…
Flu season is upon us – and with it comes an increase in the health concerns for disabled people with regard to catching the flu. Each year, a new strand of the flu vaccine is made available to people wishing to decrease their risk of contracting seasonal flu. Flu season typically begins in October, peaks…
Certain physical features may predict heart disease risk, at least that’s what a study from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark reveals. Next time you are in front of a mirror, you may to spend a few minutes checking out these signs. Researchers looked at the health profiles of over 10,000 participants in a 35-year…
As a Metro New Orleans area disability attorney, I am often asked “Can I get Social Security Disability payments for Fibromyalgia?” The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently issued SSR 12-2p which concerns evaluation of disability applications for Fibromyalgia (FM). This SSR is important to FM patients in Louisiana because SSA finally acknowledges this severe and…