There are many shared experiences among the permanently disabled, including the difficulties associated with obtaining government benefits, both medical and financial.
This is but one example. Another would be the social changes facing disabled folks. It just isn’t the same when one’s focus is altered, or time is limited—-relationships change, preventing, say, visits to friends or travel to as many places.
Unfortunately, too often, this results in the development of depression. No matter how one slices it, any one condition which prevents the ability to work creates a conduit toward negative and disappointing feelings. It is important to remember that, in all liklihood, a permanently disabled person simply is not responsible for the disabling condition, and ought to do everything possible to internalize this. It is vital to overall health to not make matters worse by feeling guilt or assigning blame where it does not belong.
So, one plays the hand they are dealt.
Another shared experience is the accumulation and continuation of debt, at times from services or business arrangements made before becoming disabled. And the debt goes on—the bills need to be paid, but a permanently disabled person, almost by definition, will be in a position of having access to less money.
Fortunately, there are government programs (and some private organizations) which may absolve the permanently disabled from certain debts. A forgiveness of debt, if you will.
One specific example is the forgiveness and discharge of student loans.
The obligation to re-pay a student loan can be stressful, especially when knowing that one’s fixed income will always disallow payment of this debt.
As a general rule, a total permanent disability is an injury or illness which is expected to continue indefinately or result in death. In order to make things official, one must obtain a physician’s certificate attesting to the condition, and its result of permanent disability.
Once a person has the documentation, a conditional discharge can be granted for a period of three years from the time one is considered permanently disabled, then discharged permanently and expunged from financial records, without having a negative impact of one’s credit history, as compiled by the three large credit reporting agencies.
The following links will provide direct access to the Department of Education and the forms necessary to file for the discharge.
https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/disability-discharge
http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/discharges.jsp
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Understanding Continuing Disability Reviews: Key Updates and Guidance
Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the critical topic of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), which are essential for individuals receiving disability benefits. The focus today is on recent statistics and personal anecdotes that highlight the ongoing importance of staying informed about CDRs.
What is a Continuing Disability Review?
A Continuing Disability Review is a routine process for individuals who have been approved for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts these reviews to determine if the health of a beneficiary has improved to the point where they can return to work, and thus no longer qualify for benefits.
Recent Case and Discussion
Recently, a case surfaced involving a person who had been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for end-stage kidney failure since they were 20. Despite their condition remaining unchanged, they received a notification of health improvement at age 50 and were at risk of losing their benefits. This situation underscores the unpredictability and significance of understanding the CDR process.
How CDRs Work
During a CDR, beneficiaries might be asked to complete a short or long form detailing their current health status. The forms are then reviewed, and if further information is needed, a full medical review may be initiated. It's crucial for recipients to respond promptly to any communications from the SSA to avoid complications or cessation of benefits.
Statistics and Trends
In 2022, approximately 1.5 million of the estimated 9 million disability recipients underwent CDRs. Of these, about 125,000 had their benefits terminated. These statistics reflect a consistent review rate, with an apparent annual increase in the number of reviews conducted, emphasizing the necessity for beneficiaries to stay vigilant.
Key Takeaways
Stay Informed: Always keep your contact information up to date and pay close attention to all correspondence from the SSA. Missing a notification or failing to respond can lead to benefit termination.
Understand the Review Frequency: Depending on the expectation of medical improvement, reviews may occur more frequently. Typically, conditions considered likely to improve are reviewed sooner and more often.
Prepare Adequately: If a review is scheduled, ensure all medical documentation is current and complete. Understanding the review process and preparing accordingly can significantly affect the outcome.
Seek Expert Advice: Engaging with professionals who specialize in disability rights and CDRs can provide crucial support and guidance. For instance, next week, we will feature an in-depth discussion with Attorney James Mitchell Brown, a veteran in the field of social security disability.
Conclusion
Continuing Disability Reviews are a standard part of the disability benefits process, but they can be daunting. By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, beneficiaries can navigate these reviews successfully. Remember, the goal is not only to retain benefits but also to ensure that the support aligns correctly with the individual’s current health needs.
Stay tuned for more updates and expert insights in our upcoming posts, and don't hesitate to reach out with your questions or for further information.
Brian
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