Last month Commissioner Astrue announced that early-onset Alzheimer’s disease will now be part of the 50+ medical conditions that automatically qualify the SSD applicant for quicker claim processing. The SSA Commissioner noted: “Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is a rapidly progressive and debilitating disease of the brain that affects individuals between the ages of 50 and 65 and clearly deserves our consideration.” Individuals applying for benefits will get a quicker response from the SSA –perhaps in weeks rather than the typical months or even years — and that is certainly a bright spot.
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
The recently ratified Motor Vehicle Property Damage bill (SB 660, to be effective October 1) gives the person who claims the damages on his/her vehicle the right to dispute vehicle value differences that may occur with the insurance company. Specifically, if the before and after vehicle value damage estimates differ between the two parties at more than $2,000 or 25% of the fair market retail value of the vehicle before the accident took place, then the claimant and insurance company may each get an outside appraiser involved to help reach an agreement. Your attorney can give you more details.
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
When your Social Security Disability claim gets to the level where you have a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge, you may be asked several questions by the judge to verify your application. These questions could include:
Tell me where you worked and the employment dates for the last dozen years. Describe what you did for each employer.
Why do you feel that you can no longer work?
What medications do you take, and what should I know about their side effects and your limitations?
Do you have pain? Where is it? How would you rate it?
Tell me about your ability to stand, walk and sit — how long can you do each of them and do you need any assistance?
I want to know about your lifestyle. In other words, what do you involve yourself with when you’re at home. Are you able to drive? Where do you go?
How has having a disability changed your life?
These questions are nothing to be alarmed about so you should not be concerned or nervous. The judge is just verifying your information and getting insight from you, a real person, about your claim.
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
The Greensboro office of Oxner + Permar has relocated from the Green Valley office building to Revolution Mill Studios, located on Yanceyville Street in Northeast Greensboro. Because of exuberant company growth, they have expanded to a 10,000 square foot work setting.
This stunning office and multi-use complex is a renovated textile mill and home to more than 100 businesses. With 15 ft. ceilings and original maple wood floors, this historic site is quite unique. Todd Oxner, principal partner in the firm, remarked, “It was time to change up our environment. We’re not an ordinary law firm, and we want our offices to be distinctive. You’ll enjoy this one-of-a-kind setting.” If you need to know how to get to us, click on the Directions tab at the top of the page.
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
With the Congressional Budget Office projecting no cost of living increase for social security benefits in 2010 and 2011, many people who receive this income will be in a tough spot. For some folks, the SSD benefits cover the absolute necessities of living. They depend on their check and make it only from month to month. Without a cost-of-living increase to cover outside expenses, many people will be forced to cut back on an already small fixed budget.
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
