Salus Blog and Articles

Social Security Disability Updates During the COVID Pandemic

By level510 / May 14, 2020 / Comments Off on Social Security Disability Updates During the COVID Pandemic

An online course for Social Security Disability practitioners of all skill levels This program, presented by Maren Miller Bam, will outline changes to the Social Security Industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, including stayed federal court proceedings and problems at the Appeals Council, telephonic hearings, and video conference consultative evaluations (CEs). Practitioners will discuss when to…

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5 Tips for Telephonic Social Security Hearings

By Maren Bam / April 15, 2020 / Comments Off on 5 Tips for Telephonic Social Security Hearings

The COVID-19 pandemic has created major changes for Social Security claimants nationwide. One of the biggest changes is that Social Security Hearings will now take place over the telephone. We compiled the top five tips for appearing for your hearing over the telephone. Location, Location, Location. Make sure you are in a quiet place with…

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Why You Need a Tech-Savvy Law Firm Amid COVID-19

By Maren Bam / April 12, 2020 / Comments Off on Why You Need a Tech-Savvy Law Firm Amid COVID-19

For individuals seeking Social Security Disability Benefits or Supplemental Security Income, stability, compassion, and communication are key. At Salus Law, we know that our clients are facing life-threatening illness, chronic pain, and mental impairments that are debilitating. We know that being out of work causes financial stress and makes medical treatment even more complicated. The…

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COVID-19 and the Rise of Mental Health Concerns

By Maren Bam / April 8, 2020 / Comments Off on COVID-19 and the Rise of Mental Health Concerns

Social Distancing. Shelter In Place. Lay-Offs. Furloughs, Closing Non-Essential Businesses. COVID-19 Cases Rise. Any one of these things would be enough to increase stress levels. As society adjusts to a new normal with less socialization, increased financial uncertainty, and constant fears of illness, mental health is of the utmost importance. Uncertainty and stress are key…

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COVID-19 Increases the Need for Timely Payments

By Maren Bam / April 3, 2020 / Comments Off on COVID-19 Increases the Need for Timely Payments

COVID-19 has resulted in countless travel restrictions ranging from limits on non-essential businesses to shelter-in-place orders. The Social Security Administration is no longer “physically” open to the public, but essential operations are still running. Hearings offices will allow ALJs to hear cases from home and telecommuting is on the rise. Many non-essential functions have halted…

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The Social Security Appeals Process

By Maren Bam / March 21, 2020 / Comments Off on The Social Security Appeals Process

The Social Security Appeals Process Initial Application The Social Security Application can be completed online at https://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/. To prepare to complete your online application, make a list of all your medical conditions and medications. Then list your medical providers with up to date contact information. This is the most important part of the application process.…

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Social Security’s Benefit Programs

By Maren Bam / March 19, 2020 / Comments Off on Social Security’s Benefit Programs

Social Security Disability Insurance Social Security Disability Insurance (sometimes abbreviated as SSDI, SSD, or DIB) is a disability program administered by the federal government to provide monthly compensation to individuals who are disabled prior to full retirement age. This program is often referred to as the disabled workers program. SSDI is a federal insurance program…

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Social Security’s Definition of Disability & The Evaluation Process

By Maren Bam / March 17, 2020 / Comments Off on Social Security’s Definition of Disability & The Evaluation Process

The Social Security Administration defines disability as an individual who suffers from physical and mental impairments that are expected to last for at least a year, has lasted a year, or will result in death and prevent work at a substantial level ($1,260 gross per month). The Social Security Administration uses a five-step sequential process…

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Common Mistakes & Pitfalls During an SSDI or SSI Case

By Maren Bam / March 14, 2020 / Comments Off on Common Mistakes & Pitfalls During an SSDI or SSI Case

Waiting too Long If you have a condition that is preventing you from work, you should apply for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income right away. If your condition improves and you can return to work, you can always withdraw your claim. Unfortunately, many people wait too long to apply for benefits and are…

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Five Benefits of Technology in the Modern Law Firm

By Maren Bam / March 11, 2020 / Comments Off on Five Benefits of Technology in the Modern Law Firm

The face of the legal industry is changing. Gone are the days of brick and mortar offices, $5000 suites, and reception areas with famous art and gourmet snacks. Technology is changing how attorneys do business. Overhead is decreasing and companies are increasingly allowing and even encouraging telecommuting. Here are five major ways that technology is…

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