Articles by Jim Allsup on ArticleSnatch.com

What To Do To Prepare For Your SSDI Hearing

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:01:49 -0500

Because of serious backlogs in the SSDI system, it takes an average of 491 days for claims to be reviewed by an administrative law judge (ALJ). Claimants who reach this level, after two previous denials have a good chance of receiving a favorable decision. This article will help you gain clarity about the SSDI hearing process, and offer you tips on how to prepare for the hearing and what to expect. After The Hearing Is Scheduled Once you receive a hearing date, it's important to determine the location of the hearing office. It sounds like simple advice, but some people don't take the time to learn where and when the hearing will be held until it's too late. Judges are on a tight schedule. If you're even 10 minutes late for your SSDI hearing, the ALJ may reschedule. If possible, even drive to the hearing office at a similar time of day to familiarize yourself with the route and traffic conditions. It's crucial to be aware of what's in your SSDI file. If you have a representative, this may not be important, but if you don't have representation, the story changes. **End Summary** Topics: SSDI]]> Social Security Disability Insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a provider of SSDI and Medicare services, including Social Security Disability Insurance representation and help with the SSDI claims process.

How To Avoid Mistakes When Filing For Social Security Disability

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:01:27 -0500

Filing for Social Security disability benefits is usually a lengthy process. It may take up to two years for a claim to reach the hearing stage, if it reaches this stage at all. In reality, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies two-thirds of all initial SSDI applications. However, there are certain things you can do to improve your chances of receiving your benefits. By following this advice, you can avoid common mistakes and receive a favorable SSDI decision in less time. Be Prepared Being prepared and knowing what to expect during the SSDI application process can increase your chances of receiving an SSDI award. Before the claims process begins, be sure to gather all important documents and information such as updated medical records, an accurate work history and all W2 forms. This information is crucial. The SSA has a very specific evaluation process to determine if an individual is eligible for SSDI benefits. To receive benefits, you must not be "gainfully employed," which means making more than $1,000 a month (in 2010). **End Summary** Topics: Social Security Disability]]> SSDI Application]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a provider of Social Security disability and Medicare services, including SSDI representation and help with the SSDI application process.

What to Consider When Evaluating Medicare Benefit Options

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:41:30 -0500

Often, there is a lot of confusion with trying to understand exactly what Medicare offers as well as determining Medicare eligibility. By definition, this program is a social insurance program administered by the federal government. It is funded by the Social Security Administration and operates as a healthcare system in which single-payer health insurance collects all of an individual's medical fees and pays for all services through a single government source. Types Of Benefits The two most common types of Medicare benefit programs are Part A and Part B. Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance Medicare Part A covers in-patient hospital stays, semi-private hospital rooms, food, tests and doctor fees. It also covers the gradual recovery or convalescence of someone in a nursing home or similar facility if the following criteria are met: a. A preceding hospital stay must be at least three days and three midnights (not counting the discharge date). b. Staying in a nursing home/facility must be related to something diagnosed during a previous hospital stay or be the main reason for the hospital stay. c. The patient may not be receiving rehabilitation, but must have some other ailment that requires skilled nursing supervision. d. **End Summary** Topics: Medicare Eligibility]]> Medicare Benefit]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a nationwide provider of Medicare benefit representation that can work with you to determine your Medicare eligibility .

How to Better Manage Your Healthcare Costs Prior to Medicare Eligibility

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:32:08 -0500

Healthcare reform is a hot topic right now, with passionate opinions on both sides about how to better reshape our healthcare system. However, most people agree that something needs to be done about healthcare costs. An astounding number of Americans have critical healthcare needs that go ignored simply because of treatment costs. People with disabilities, in particular, have many health issues and often find it hard to receive the right kind of treatment. Some of those with disabilities qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, which provides them with a regular monthly income as well as medical benefits. One key benefit of SSDI is eventually receiving Medicare benefits. But people must wait 24 months after their entitlement to SSDI to receive Medicare. So what happens if you need money for healthcare now and can't wait two years? While there doesn't seem to be any way of getting around this 24-month waiting period unless you have end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), there are things you can do to reduce your healthcare costs prior to Medicare eligibility. **End Summary** Topics: Disability Insurance]]> Medicare Eligibility]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a nationwide SSDI representation provider. They also can help you determine your Medicare eligibility .

10 Questions to Ask When Evaluating Your Medicare Plan

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:43:34 -0500

Healthcare reform is a hot topic right now, with passionate opinions on both sides about how to better reshape our healthcare system. However, most people agree that something needs to be done about healthcare costs. An astounding number of Americans have critical healthcare needs that go ignored simply because of treatment costs. People with disabilities, in particular, have many health issues and often find it hard to receive the right kind of treatment. Some of those with disabilities qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, which provides them with a regular monthly income as well as medical benefits. One key benefit of SSDI is eventually receiving Medicare benefits. But people must wait 24 months after their entitlement to SSDI to receive Medicare. So what happens if you need money for healthcare now and can't wait two years? While there doesn't seem to be any way of getting around this 24-month waiting period unless you have end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), there are things you can do to reduce your healthcare costs prior to Medicare eligibility. **End Summary** Topics: Medicare plan selection service]]> Medicare]]> Medicare Plans]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a provider of Social Security disability and Medicare services, including Allsup Medicare Advisor , a Medicare plan selection service for people with disabilities and seniors.

How To Select The Right Medicare Plan

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:26:54 -0500

Just deciding which way to go when choosing from the combination of different types of healthcare coverage is confusing for many people eligible for Medicare. For most people, having choices is a very good thing. But what about when you have thousands of plans to choose from? When it comes to this program, you have nothing but choices. Depending upon your circumstances, you may want to stay with traditional coverage, or Parts A and B. If you choose this path, you'll probably want to get a Part D (prescription drug) plan, too, to ensure your medications are covered. Or, you might be more interested in an Advantage plan, which can combine traditional coverage with drug coverage and other benefits. You also may be interested in even more coverage, such as that offered through a Medigap (supplemental) plan. Fortunately, help is available. A Medicare advisor offers education on available these programs, answers questions, and offers detailed plans of action to get the most out of your insurance choices. You also should know the basics beforehand. Traditional Coverage Parts A and B, also known as traditional or original coverage, have been around since 1965. **End Summary** Topics: Medicare advisor]]> Medicare assistance services]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a provider of Social Security disability , Medicare and workers' compensation services, including Allsup Medicare Advisor , Medicare assistance services for people with disabilities and seniors.

Disability and the Importance of Applying for SSDI Benefits Early to Receive Medicare Benefits

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:03:09 -0500

One of the biggest advantages of qualifying for SSDI is that you will become eligible for Medicare benefits after receiving SSDI benefits for 24 months. For that reason, it's especially important to apply for SSDI as soon as possible. Many people wait too long to apply for SSDI benefits. You should apply immediately if you are unable to work for 12 months or longer because of an injury, illness or chronic condition. Those with terminal illnesses also can apply for SSDI. A common misconception is that you have to wait a full year before applying for benefits. This isn't true. If your doctor confirms that your disability is severe and long term, you should apply for SSDI immediately. What is SSDI? Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal insurance program overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and funded by a portion of the FICA payroll tax. SSDI provides people under age 65 who are unable to work because of a debilitating injury or illness with monthly income until their condition improves or on a continual basis if it is a permanent disability. Once they reach full retirement age (65-67), they move to Social Security retirement income. **End Summary** Topics: SSDI]]> SSDI Eligibility]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a nationwide provider of SSDI representation that can work with you to determine your SSDI eligibility .

SSDI & Medicare: A Beginner's Guide

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:21:17 -0400

Figuring out how the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Medicare programs are related can be confusing to anyone who isn't currently enrolled in these programs. This article provides basic information on SSDI and Medicare eligibility and benefits. In addition, this guide will show you how to apply for and receive the right benefits for your situation. Defining the Programs SSDI is a payroll tax-funded, federal insurance program that was established in 1954. A portion of the FICA taxes taken out of your paycheck are set aside for this disability insurance program, which provides monthly income to people who are unable to work due to a severe disability. Medicare is another federal insurance program, but is health insurance instead of disability insurance. It is available to all individuals age 65 and older as well as those who have been receiving SSDI cash benefits for 24 months. The program is made up of many parts - Medicare Part A consists of hospital benefits; Medicare Part B is medical benefits; Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) provides extra coverage and is provided by private insurance companies; and Medicare Part D is voluntary prescription drug coverage. **End Summary** Topics: SSDI]]> Medicare]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a nationwide provider of Social Security Disability , Medicare and workers' compensation services for individuals, employers and insurance carriers. Allsup provides a Medicare Advisor service to help you select the Medicare plans that are right for you.

Why You Should Take Advantage of SSDI Benefits

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:01:47 -0400

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a federal insurance program funded by payroll taxes and administered by the Social Security Administration. This program is designed to provide people who cannot work due to a severe disability with income until their condition improves or indefinitely if the condition does not improve. Many people are unaware of the benefits of receiving SSDI. These benefits include regular monthly income, Medicare eligibility including access to medical and prescription drug coverage, possible COBRA extension, protected retirement benefits, dependent benefits and return-to-work incentives. With these SSDI benefits, those who are unable to work can rest a little easier knowing that they'll be receiving disability insurance to help cover their living and medical expenses. If you have a severe disability and are unable to work, read on to find out more about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the many advantages that can come as a result of qualifying for the program. Monthly Income One of the biggest advantages of receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is that those who are qualified receive a regular monthly income that has annual cost-of-living increases. Additionally, a portion of these benefits may be tax-free. **End Summary** Topics: SSDI]]> disability insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, a SSDI benefits expert. Mr. Allsup and his experienced team of professionals help people with disabilities get the Social Security Disability Insurance benefits they need and deserve.

Social Security Disability Representative -- 10 Questions to Ask

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:41:27 -0400

Finding the right SSDI representative can help you get through the Social Security disability backlog faster. But first, you need to know what to look for before making this important decision. #1: What are your options if you want to hire representation? Typically, there are two major types of paid SSDI representatives: specialized organizations, which has multiple representatives and specialists experienced in handling SSDI claims in local communities across the country and law firms that may or may not have attorneys solely dedicated to SSDI claims. #2: How knowledgeable and experienced is the organization in representing individuals applying for SSDI? You should look for a representative who specializes in SSDI and understands the complexities and nuances of the process. Don't be fooled if a representative tries to impress you with his or her local influence. #3: Will the organization help you file the initial application for SSDI? The myth that you cannot have a representative help you file your initial application for SSDI may stem from the fact that many attorneys only accept SSDI clients after their initial applications are denied. #4: What specific activities will the representative undertake on your behalf? **End Summary** Topics: social security disability]]> disability insurance]]> disability representative]]> ssdi]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> For 25 years, Allsup has been a nationwide provider of Social Security disability , Medicare and workers' compensation services for individuals, employers and insurance carriers. Their 600 professionals deliver specialized services to people with disabilities and seniors so they lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible.

Applying For SSDI Benefits -- Understanding The Social Security Application Process

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:57:50 -0400

Many people have heard of Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, but don't understand the actual process of how to apply for these benefits or that they may be eligible. Funded by payroll taxes, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal government insurance program. SSDI benefits are paid to workers who cannot work due to a debilitating illness or disability. Social Security Disability Applications The easiest way to begin your Social Security disability application is by consulting a professional claims services company by phone or through its Web site. Some leading companies even offer a convenient, free evaluation, which is a cost effective step that will first determine your eligibility. Filling out a Social Security disability application and Activities of Daily Living questionnaire are the first steps in the application process. By working with a professional company with vast experience, you can ensure proper completion of your forms. You also will considerably increase the likelihood of an approval for benefits when using services offered by professional representatives. After completing your Social Security disability application, the next step taken is determining if a legitimate disability exists and the extent the disability interferes with your employment. **End Summary** Topics: Social Security Application]]> SSDI Benefits]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, an SSDI benefits representative. They offer a free, no-obligation Social Security Disability application evaluation.

Determining Your Eligibility For Social Security Disability Benefits

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:53:25 -0400

Many people do not realize they are eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Misunderstandings and confusing government processes prevent people from receiving the disability benefits they deserve. Unfortunately, many Americans exhaust their own savings and financial resources before finally applying for these benefits. Even worse, some people go without necessary medical care that could have eased medical problems, helping them to live better and possibly get back to work sooner. People with chronic, debilitating disabilities and illnesses often face overwhelming difficulties due to their unfortunate medical condition(s). Aggravating the problem, living on no income or a reduced income can keep these individuals from receiving the healthcare they deserve. This article looks at the confusion surrounding applying for SSDI benefits and shows how Social Security disability benefits can make a huge difference in people's lives. Expert Advice Is Key All conditions and illnesses covered by Social Security disability benefits have certain criteria that deem a person eligible or not. This is why expert advice from a professional company is crucial to receiving an award. For example, a person with AIDS may receive SSDI benefits due to the symptoms of AIDS, including neurological and hematological abnormalities. **End Summary** Topics: SSDI Benefits]]> Social Security Disability Benefits]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, an SSDI benefits representative. They offer a free, no-obligation Social Security Disability Evaluation .