×
Go back to Martindale-Avvo ➔

Social Security Legal Questions

Want a good answer? Ask a thorough question starting with "Who, What, When, How, Will I or Do I".
Then, add details. This will help you get a quicker and better answer.
Question field is required
Explanation field is required
A valid US zip code is required Validating the Zip Code.
Question type field is required
Question type field is required
1
Ask a Question
2
Details
3
Submit
1
Ask a Question
2
Submit
Fullname is required
A valid email address is required.
Receive a follow-up from lawyers after your question is answered
A valid phone number is required
Select the best time for you to receive a follow-up call from a lawyer after your question is answered. (Required field)
to
Invalid Time

*Required fields

Question
Description
By submitting your question, you understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy for use of the site. Do not include any personal information including name, email or other identifying details in your question or question details. An attorney-client relationship is not being established and you are not a prospective client of any attorney who responds to your question. No question, answer, or discussion of any kind facilitated on this site is confidential or legal advice. Questions answered are randomly selected based on general consumer interest and not all are addressed. Questions may display online and be archived by Martindale-Hubbell.
169 legal questions have been posted about social security by real users. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include social security disability. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
Social Security Questions & Legal Answers - Page 1
Do you have any Social Security questions and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 169 previously answered Social Security questions.
Social Security
All States

Recent Legal Answers

Hello, I am wondering if I am able to apply for SSDI. I have been out of work since August 26, 2025 due to injury. And am also a disabled veteran.

Answered 2 months ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
You should consult with a Social Security and Disability lawyer in your state about filing a case. 
You should consult with a Social Security and Disability lawyer in your state about filing a case. 

What do I need to know to maximize my retirement benefits from social security

Answered 6 months ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
The longer you wait to collect Social Security, the more the payout will most likely be. If you wait to collect Social Security at the age of 65 that will most likely be more than if you collected at age 62. And so on and so forth. You should Make an appointment with your local Social Security office for more specific advice.      ... Read More
The longer you wait to collect Social Security, the more the payout will most likely be. If you wait to collect Social Security at the age of 65 that... Read More

My husband and I came to the USA for vacation July 8, 2024. Can his son now a US citizen file for me as a step mother. He live with us since age 2

Answered a year and a month ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
If your US Citizen stepson is over the age of 21, and you married his father before he turned 18, and you entered the United States with permission, then he can sponsor you for a green card. You can do all the paperwork here. Consider working with an immigration attorney. Some of us charge very affordable flat fee for start to finish representation. ... Read More
If your US Citizen stepson is over the age of 21, and you married his father before he turned 18, and you entered the United States with permission,... Read More

My immigration case was closed for abandonment.My lawyer did not send my RFE to USCIS, neither he followed up on my case for 13 months.

Answered a year and 7 months ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
If your case was closed due to an RFE not being timely responded to, then you have to re file your case. If USCIS has ordered you to leave the country, then you should retain immigration counsel immediately. 
If your case was closed due to an RFE not being timely responded to, then you have to re file your case. If USCIS has ordered you to leave the... Read More

What do I need besides medical records to prove my case?

Answered a year and 8 months ago by Stephanie Elizabeth Emanuel (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
I understand this is a stressful situation. Southwest Virginia Legal Aid Society (SVLAS) offers free legal services in civil cases, including Social Security disability appeals. They may be able to represent you in your case. You can also consider consulting a private attorney specializing in Social Security disability. While there may be a cost involved, they can provide expert guidance throughout the appeal process. Although we are not based in Virginia, however we do have partnerships with Document Preperation Services that can help you in navigating the process and understand your situation. Service like this they charge $250.00 If you are able to spend this amount than feel free to reach out to me so that I can give you the referral. If not you can try the legal aid society i mentioned above as well. But I think paid service is better alternative than a free service.... Read More
I understand this is a stressful situation. Southwest Virginia Legal Aid Society (SVLAS) offers free legal services in civil cases, including Social... Read More

What are the chances you can win a settlement for a stage 4 bed sore

Answered a year and 10 months ago by attorney Loren L. Gold   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
      Dear Vicky, I am sorry to hear about this and hope your husband's condition improves. That being said, the answer to your question can only be obtained through medical expert review of your husband's medical records to determine whether the standard of care was breached and if that breach directly caused or contributed to causing him serious and permanent injuries. A Personal Injury/ Medical Malpractice Attorney can assist you in exploring these issues by interviewing you in depth and reviewing your medical records prior to potentially sending them out for review by the appropriate medical experts. We all give free consultations; however, you will have to reach out, as we are unable to solicit on this forum. Do not delay, as the Statute of Limitation for bringing a Medical Malpractice lawsuit is relatively short given the complexity involved in such cases. I'm happy to speak with you about this. Loren L. Gold, Esq Direct Line: 954-742-6999... Read More
      Dear Vicky, I am sorry to hear about this and hope your husband's condition improves. That being said, the answer to your... Read More

How can it affect a US Citizen to marry someone with an expired visa seeking a greencard?

Answered 2 years and 2 months ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
OK, so a US citizen can sponsor a spouse who entered the United States with a visa. This is true even if the visa is expired, and the immigrant is unlawfully present. Additionally, if your income is insufficient to sponsor the immigrant spouse, you can enlist the help of a joint financial sponsor as long as that person is either a US citizen or a green card holder.  You should retain an immigration attorney here in Florida to handle the case from start to finish, so that no mistakes or delays are made. Some of us charge a reasonable flat fee to handle the case from start to finish.... Read More
OK, so a US citizen can sponsor a spouse who entered the United States with a visa. This is true even if the visa is expired, and the immigrant is... Read More

Can I work product on sdd

Answered 2 years and 3 months ago by attorney Gilbert Borman   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
I suggest you reach out to the the state bar lawyer referal system. 800-968-0738
I suggest you reach out to the the state bar lawyer referal system. 800-968-0738

possibly looking for disability lawyer

Answered 2 years and 5 months ago by attorney Gilbert Borman   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Please call Joel Alpert-  Comp and Disability-  Phone: (248) 354-6400 Please mention that Gilbert Borman referred you to him 
Please call Joel Alpert-  Comp and Disability-  Phone: (248) 354-6400 Please mention that Gilbert Borman referred you to him 

I have a Social Security Question re: a man who has citizenship in the US and UK and is a New Zealand native. He had a stroke. He is in New Zealand.

Answered 3 years and 10 months ago by attorney Peter T. Skeie   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
If you have power of attorney, you might be able to get the information yourself. I would start by calling the SSA office that services your zip code. https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp At a minimum they will want a copy of the POA, Ron's full name, date of birth and social security number. They will probably require you to know his place of birth, mother's maiden name and father's name as further confirmation of your relationship with him. Ask for a copy of his Detailed Earnings Query (DEQY) a copy of this Summary Earnings Report (SEQY) and a copy of his Certified Earnings Record (CERTERN). These three documents should confirm the earnings he reported to the US government/IRS that were subject to Social Security contributions. Peter Skeie, Attorney at Law, 615-313-9111    ... Read More
If you have power of attorney, you might be able to get the information yourself. I would start by calling the SSA office that services your zip... Read More

What are the chances of me getting back on SSI being I was on it for several years but went to prison

Answered 3 years and 10 months ago by attorney Peter T. Skeie   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
The challenge is that most prison systmes provide little or no mentl health care so current documentation of your struggles will be hard. Accordingly, your first priority should be to find current, ongoing, consistent mental health care. You may call me to discuss your claim, Peter Skeie, 615-313-9111... Read More
The challenge is that most prison systmes provide little or no mentl health care so current documentation of your struggles will be hard.... Read More

How can I be denied when I have spinal stenosis in lumbar and cervical, when in ss blue book of approval. plus blood clot in brain

Answered 4 years ago by Justen E. Grech (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Karen, unfortunately, Social Security denies almost everyone your age at the beggining of the process despite the severity of your conditions.  In my 22 years of handling only Social Security cases, I have seen plenty of people meet the blue book defenition of a condition be denied.  If you want a free consultation, please call my office and I would be happy to speak with you.  ... Read More
Karen, unfortunately, Social Security denies almost everyone your age at the beggining of the process despite the severity of your conditions. ... Read More

Upgrade compensation.

Answered 4 years ago by Justen E. Grech (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Dale, Social Security does not have a percentage of disability scale like you mentioned.  Either you are 100% disabled or you are not disabled.  There is no sliding sclae that awards people 50% disability at a lower rate than someone who is 100% disabled.  Now, if you have Service Connected Veterans Disability ebneifts, they do award on a lsiding scale from 10% to 100%.  ... Read More
Dale, Social Security does not have a percentage of disability scale like you mentioned.  Either you are 100% disabled or you are not... Read More

what to do?

Answered 4 years and 2 months ago by Andrew Allen Popp (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
I suggest you start looking around for another dermatologist.  Reach out to your PCP, or even a local hospital for referrals if you cannot otherwise find someone.
I suggest you start looking around for another dermatologist.  Reach out to your PCP, or even a local hospital for referrals if you cannot... Read More

SS Disability Claim

Answered 4 years and 3 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
It's not too late to file for social security disability. If approved, your benefit amount will increase to your full retirement age amount as if you waited. I recommend contacting an attorney who does SSDI law for a free consultation. 
It's not too late to file for social security disability. If approved, your benefit amount will increase to your full retirement age amount as if you... Read More

Do you think my chances are good for being approved

Answered 4 years and 3 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
You should consult with an attorney that practices Social Security Disability law exclusively.  There are too many variables to answer your question without a deeper discussion. Consultations are free and you only pay an attorney if they win your case. 
You should consult with an attorney that practices Social Security Disability law exclusively.  There are too many variables to answer your... Read More

SSD denied benefits

Answered 4 years and 4 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Contact an attorney that specializes in Social Security Disability for a free consultation. 
Contact an attorney that specializes in Social Security Disability for a free consultation. 

What income assistance is available once my TDI is finished and I’m still waiting for SSDI

Answered 4 years and 5 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
There are some things you can do to expedite your case.  Contact an attorney who practices Social Security Disability for a free consultation.
There are some things you can do to expedite your case.  Contact an attorney who practices Social Security Disability for a free consultation.

How much money per year am I allowed to give my sister without penalties and taxes.

Answered 4 years and 6 months ago by attorney Terry Lynn Garrett   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
If your sister has a special needs trust (because she is receiving needs-based public benefits in the form of Supplemental Security Income), and it is established with NONE of her own money, you can contribute any amount to it.  You can also contribute up to $15,000 per year to an ABLE account (www.stable.org). However, if your sister has some other sort of trust and is receiving not Supplemental Security Income ($794/month in 2021) and Medicaid but Social Security Disability Income (in excess of the SSI figure), you are only limited by the Internal Revenue Code.  This allows anyone to give anyone else up to $15,000/year without paying gift tax or $70,000, filing a Form 709 with their 1040 to explain that it is intended to be a gift over five years.... Read More
If your sister has a special needs trust (because she is receiving needs-based public benefits in the form of Supplemental Security Income), and it... Read More

Who can talk to me about getting my disability?

Answered 4 years and 6 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
You can call any attorney that specializes in Social Security Disability. There are some search methods I can recommend if you would like to reach out.
You can call any attorney that specializes in Social Security Disability. There are some search methods I can recommend if you would like to reach... Read More

NEED TO ESTABLISH POA

Answered 4 years and 6 months ago by Andrew Allen Popp (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
That should be a relatively easy thing to find.  Make sure sure that you see an attorney who practices in estate planning.  While the documents are not especially complex, there can be implications and conflicts between POA's and your other estate planning documents,  If you're seeking an attorney, the find a lawyer tab is a place to start. Other places to look are with the local bar association, or just asking around.  Attorneys are not permitted answer your question here and say something like "Sure no problem, call me."  You need to be the one to initiate contact.  Best of luck.... Read More
That should be a relatively easy thing to find.  Make sure sure that you see an attorney who practices in estate planning.  While the... Read More

I need to find a lawyer that does SSI CLAIMS not SSD

Answered 4 years and 6 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Most attorneys will do SSI only disability claims.  Call one for a free consultation. 
Most attorneys will do SSI only disability claims.  Call one for a free consultation. 

iam 67 as of December 2020, (born 1953) am applying for ss benefits, currently my monthly benefit would be 3,203 @month. starting Feb 2021.

Answered 4 years and 8 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
They are offering it because it is your choice when to start receiving benefits.  There is no way to know which offer is better unless you know how long you are going to live.  You should consult a financial planner for additional guidance. 
They are offering it because it is your choice when to start receiving benefits.  There is no way to know which offer is better unless you know... Read More

Social security

Answered 4 years and 8 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
Not sure what your question is. Please repost with additional details and a valid question. 
Not sure what your question is. Please repost with additional details and a valid question. 

SSI was canceled after failing to report checking account

Answered 4 years and 8 months ago by Steven Neil Perrigo (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Social Security
You are beyond your appeal period to argue the facts of the overpayment via a reconsideration, unless they grant you "good cause" for filing late. However, You can still file a waiver for forgiveness of the OP if you feel it wasn't your fault and you can't afford to pay it back. You can also file a new SSI claim if you are disabled and have limited income and resources now. ... Read More
You are beyond your appeal period to argue the facts of the overpayment via a reconsideration, unless they grant you "good cause" for filing late.... Read More
Social Security
All States

Helpful Resources