Re-Opening a Claim for VA Disability BenefitsWhen the VA issues a rating decision in connection with a Veteran's claim for benefits the Veteran has one year to file a Notice of Disagreement to appeal the decision. If a Notice of Disagreement is not received within one...
Disability solutions for you and your family
Month: August 2016
Special Needs Trust
Special Needs TrustClaimants for disability may also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In order to qualify for SSI benefits, a person must have a low income and few resources. SSI is a needs-based benefit program. A person's SSI benefits are calculated...
How to Help Those Affected by Flooding in Louisiana
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those suffering by the horrific flooding in Louisiana. With over 40,000 homes damaged and 11 deaths, our neighbors need our help, love and our support.Gardberg & Kemmerly will host a "dress down day" for Louisiana and bake...
SSDI and SSI: What’s the Difference?
SSDI and SSI: What's the Difference?When the vast majority of people apply for Social Security disability benefits, the worker at SSA taking the claim will automatically put in applications for both SSDI and SSI. So what's the difference?For both types of claim, you...
A Silent Enemy: Arthritis and Its Effect on Veterans
A Silent Enemy: Arthritis and Its Effect on VeteransIn 2015, the Arthritis Foundation conducted a detailed study to research the issue of arthritis and military veterans. The Foundation's study revealed that the issue of arthritis is particularly serious in veterans....
Increased Compensation for Veterans’ Disability Benefits
Increased Compensation for Veterans' Disability BenefitsOn Friday July 22, 2016, the Veterans' Compensation COLA Act of 2016 was passed. The new law directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to increase the rates of veterans' disability compensation, additional...
Expediting Appeals Council Claims When You Reach Age 55
Expediting Appeals Council Claims When You Reach Age 55A Social Security claim may be appealed to the Appeals Council if that claim is denied by the Administrative Law Judge. Once a claim is appealed to the Appeals Council, it may take anywhere from twelve to...
Military Sexual Trauma
Military Sexual TraumaAbout 1 in 5 women have told their VA healthcare provider that they experienced sexual trauma in the military. With such widespread prevalence, it's important to know some facts about Military Sexual Trauma ("MST"):•· Defined by the VA as: sexual...