Indianapolis Social Security disability attorney Scott Lewis routinely runs into some of the same questions and/or concerns many of his Indiana disability clients share. Many of these are a sign of the times, as many people are losing their jobs and cannot support their families or themselves while waiting on a Social Security disability hearing.
A big question they share is “Can I receive unemployment and still try to get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?” Indianapolis disability attorney Scott Lewis has written a previous blog on this issue, but the question is still a dominant matter in his Social Security disability practice. The Social Security Administration (SSA) states receiving unemployment insurance compensation does not preclude you from receiving Social Security disability benefits, although it can be a factor in determining whether you receive those benefits.
Now, let’s talk reality. In Indianapolis Social Security disability attorney Scott Lewis’ experience, it depends on what Social Security Administrative Law Judge you get when you are at the hearing level. Some Judges make this a sole reason for denying your benefits whereas Judges don’t even ask you about it. Then again, other Judges are somewhere in between. These judges may want to amend your onset date to the date right after you received your last unemployment payment.
When assigned to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) you should ask your Indianapolis Social Security lawyer or representative about the particular ALJ you have. How does this Judge look at receiving unemployment compensation while attempting to get Social Security disability? This may help prepare you for the types of questions you will be asked at your Indiana Social Security disability hearing. If your answer to this question is that you and your family would have went hungry and lost your home, Attorney Scott Lewis suggests you tell the Social Security Administrative Law Judge that is the reason you made this decision. Also, just because you say you are ready, willing, and able to work doesn’t mean you can. While mentally you believe you are able to work, physically you may not be capable of performing work like activity.
Social Security Disability: Claim Denied?
Need Help With Application?
Don't get frustrated! At our law firm, it's our mission to professionally represent our disabled clients, as well as their families, and work hard to get you the benefits you deserve.
or Email us.
The above information is only a summary of Indianapolis Social Security Lawyer Scott Lewis’ experience and is not intended as legal advice. Mr. Lewis believes it is important for Indiana Social Security disability claimants to weigh all of their options before making a decision regarding unemployment compensation and Social Security disability benefits.
