Why Did Social Security Deny You?


When you receive the Social Security Disability denial notice in the mail what does it mean?

Most Social Security Disability denials explain the reasons at the end of the notice.

It will say something like you can return to your old job, or you can still perform light work.

These reasons mean something to the Social Security Administration.

The first test in Social Security Disability is whether you can do your old job. If you can return to your old job, then you are not disabled.

The second test is what jobs are available if you cannot perform your old work.

If you are under 50 years of age and you can do any kind of work on a full time basis, then you are not disabled.

When you are 50 years of age and older the standards become less strict.

Questions about your Social Security Disability denial? Feel free to call Illinois Social Security Lawyer Dirk May at 3090-827-4371.

Work Comp and Job Searches


Job searches are very important in Illinois Workers’ Compensation cases.

If your work injury results in permanent restrictions and you cannot return to your old job, then a job search may be necessary.

The job search will show what jobs are available to you and what the job market will pay you.

This is a true test of how your limitations reduce your wages.

For instance, if you made $30 an hour before your injury, and $10 an hour after your injury then you are entitled to what is called a wage differential.

The only way to tell what you will make after your injury is to search for a job and get hired.

Questions about job searches, settlements and Workmans Compensation? Feel free to call Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

Social Security Disability Back Problems


Last time I discussed Social Security listings in general, this week I will go through an example of a back listing.

Remember, you do not have to meet a listing to be found disabled. However, if you do meet a listing, then you will automatically be found disabled.

Back problems are listed under disorders of the spine.

These include herniated nucleus pulposus, spinal arachnoditis, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, facet arthritis, or vertebral fracture resulting in compromise of a nerve root or spinal cord with inability to walk effectively, or a need to change positions often, or motor loss and limited range of motion.

These conditions must be documented with medical imaging studies and medical exams and testing.

Questions about back problems and Social Security Disability? Feel free to call Illinois Social Security Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

Work Comp Payments and Vocational Rehabilitation


In Illinois you can continue receiving your Workers’ Compensation payments if you need help finding a job due to your work injury.

To do this you must request Vocational Rehabilitation from the Work Comp insurance company.

Vocational Rehabilitation is a fancy term for a job search.

The insurance company will hire a vocational counselor to help you put a resume together, find job leads, and prepare you for the interviews.

You must cooperate with the vocational expert and put your best efforts into finding a job that fits your restrictions.

The advantage for the injured worker is that you will continue to be paid Workers Compensation benefits, and the value of your case increases depending on the outcome of your job search.

Questions about Workmans Compensation payments, job searches, and vocational experts? Feel free to call Illinois Workers’ Compensation Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

What is a Social Security Listing?


Social Security Listings are regulations that describe conditions that if met automatically leads to a finding of disability.
It is very difficult to fall within a listing. Examples of listings are blindness, severe limitations on walking, severe heart conditions, or multiple hospitalizations for mental illness.

The Social Security Disability listings describe conditions. But just being diagnosed with the condition does not mean you are disabled.

The listings describe the type of limitations that may result from the conditions. Social Security focuses on these limitations.

Remember, as long as you work full time you are not disabled, no matter what conditions you may have. For instance, blind people who work full time cannot be disabled. However, when they stop working full time they can apply for Social Security disability.

Questions about Social Security Disability listings and whether they apply to you? Feel free to contact Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.