Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Social Security Announces 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment for 2025
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, marking the smallest increase since 2021. While inflation has decreased from its peak during the pandemic, many advocates for older Americans express concern that this modest increase may hinder U.S. retirees from maintaining their financial stability. Starting in January, this… Read More »
What is the Status of My Claim and What is My Chance of Getting Approved for Social Security Disability Benefits? Stages and Approval Rates in Social Security Disability Application Process
Many Social Security Disability benefits applicants are likely familiar with the long delays in the Social Security Disability applications process. Indeed, it is an unfortunate fact that Social Security Disability applicants from across the country must wait months – and sometimes even longer – to get a decision regarding their Social Security Disability eligibility… Read More »
Seriously Injured but Not Sure which Program Applies? The Difference Between Social Security Disability and Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Michigan
The truth of the matter is that when a person is injured, whether at work, at home, or due to a chronic illness, it can be a confusing, scary, and uncertain time. With medical appointments to attend and a serious illness or injury to treat, most people who are seriously injured or impaired have… Read More »
Is a Vocational Expert Testifying at Your Social Security Disability Hearing? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you were denied Social Security Disability benefits and you are scheduled for a hearing before an administrative law judge, you may be surprised to hear that a third-party will be attending your hearing called a vocational expert. The truth of the matter is that a vocational expert has the power to impact the… Read More »
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 »