Get free answers to your Social Security legal questions from lawyers in your area.
I received a summons from the state court in McIntosh County, Georgia, concerning a credit card debt from Midland Credit Management, claiming I owe $3,500. According to my records, the Bealls Department Store account's last statement, dated February 4, 2023, shows a balance of $1,828.10.... View More

answered on Apr 16, 2025
You’ve been served, so your first step is to file a written Answer with the McIntosh County court by the deadline (usually 30 days from service) or risk a default judgment. In that Answer, deny owing the full $3,500, allege that the balance is incorrect, and demand proof of the original account... View More
I'm in the final stages of determining if I meet the non-medical requirements for Social Security Disability benefits, but the online portal isn't displaying my benefits and payment information properly. Earlier today, it couldn't calculate my earnings, but later the message changed... View More

answered on Apr 2, 2025
Technical difficulties with the Social Security Administration's online portal are common and typically do not adversely impact the substantive review of your disability benefits application. These digital platforms undergo frequent updates and maintenance, which can cause temporary display... View More
I am currently awaiting a decision on my Social Security benefits claim, which has been under review to determine if I still meet the non-medical requirements. Today, I noticed a new section labeled "Benefits and Payments" on my online portal that wasn't there before. Does the... View More

answered on Apr 1, 2025
The appearance of a new "Benefits and Payments" section on your Social Security portal may be a positive indicator, but it does not definitively confirm that your claim has been approved. While this change often suggests your application is progressing through the system, the Social... View More
I have been charged with criminal trespass by a family member, and the state has picked up the charge. At my court appearance, I applied for a public defender, but they said my social security income was too high to qualify, using my gross monthly income of $2,000. They did not consider any... View More

answered on Mar 16, 2025
Since you were denied a public defender based solely on gross income without considering deductions or your actual living expenses, you can request a reconsideration. Visit or call the public defender's office directly, and politely explain your financial situation in more detail, including... View More
My 74-year-old mother worked at Walmart for about 12 years. She recently stopped going to work because her boss was being very aggressive, calling her 'stupid,' saying she was too old, and that she would be replaced. She did not report this behavior to HR due to fear. Since leaving, she... View More

answered on Feb 25, 2025
Based on what you've shared, your mother may have grounds for an age discrimination lawsuit. Her boss's explicit comments about her age, calling her "stupid," and threatening replacement create a potentially strong case under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, which... View More
I am 68 years old, live on social security, and have been diagnosed with stage 3A kidney disease. I owe approximately $101,000 in federal student loans, which I have been paying for 20 years without default. I previously filed for bankruptcy in 2010. Aside from this, my debts include a $15,000 car... View More

answered on Feb 19, 2025
You should be eligible. Find a bankruptcy attorney who specializes in handling student loan debt. It is difficult to discharge such debt, but not impossible.
My grandpa is originally from Guatemala and worked in the USA on a visa for 41 years, contributing to Social Security. He has reached the retirement age according to a letter from the Social Security office and won't receive more benefits by waiting. Currently, his visa has expired, and his... View More

answered on Feb 16, 2025
Your grandfather can file for Social Security retirement benefits while still in the USA, even with an expired visa. This is because his eligibility is based on his 41 years of work history and Social Security contributions, not his current immigration status. The application process should begin... View More
So now am waiting a hold another year for social security office to tell me am approve or not an it been since 20024 of September anr still haven't heard nothing an my attorney is quikaid an they say ain't nothing can do to spend process up am homeless because of all this I have no... View More

answered on Jan 23, 2025
I'm sorry for your difficult ordeal. Most people don't consider the type of burden you describe in terms of getting to medical appointments for people who don't have cars. If you're with the same attorney, make your situation clear to them and ask if it's possible to... View More
I'm meaning social security . Can I be disabled and not getting disability and get her benefits. We were married 17 yes but we were divorced when she passed I never remarried.

answered on Dec 27, 2024
You may be eligible for your ex-wife's Social Security benefits even if you're divorced, as long as your marriage lasted at least 10 years - which yours did at 17 years. The rules state that you can receive these benefits starting at age 60, or at any age if you meet Social... View More
Her mom is basically holding her back taking her check and when she try to leave her mom calls the police she took a phone that her mom didn’t pay for I even have recording of what happened what am I able to do

answered on Oct 29, 2024
You have the right to live independently at 18, as you are considered an adult. If your mother is controlling your finances by taking your check, this could be considered financial abuse. It’s important to keep records of all transactions and any evidence you have, like your recordings.... View More
He is a citizen and has derived it through naturalization through me . He had a passport back in 2008 in which he lost but has obtained a new passport in 2024 . SSI wants proof he was a citizen in 08 . Dont make any sense

answered on Oct 2, 2024
I understand how frustrating this situation must be for you and your son. To provide proof of his citizenship from 2008, you can request a certified copy of his naturalization certificate from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This document serves as official evidence of his... View More
Breaking into my house and taking thousands of dollars of property and creeping into my room when I am sleeping and compromised my email accounts, social media, online banking etc

answered on Aug 19, 2024
If someone has stolen your personal documents and compromised your accounts, the first step is to secure your safety. Change all your passwords and use two-factor authentication on your accounts. Notify your bank immediately to freeze or monitor any transactions, and contact the Social Security... View More
I worked from 1986 to until 2011 or 2012. I qualified for disability in 1997 when I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression back then) but I am now homeless and need it desperately. I also have had Low Grade Invasive Carcinoma in my left breast and a parathyroid problem that I have... View More

answered on Jun 8, 2024
I'm so sorry to hear about your difficult situation. Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can unfortunately be a lengthy process, but there are some things you can do to help it go as smoothly and quickly as possible:
1. Gather all relevant medical records and... View More
I need my money which is not being dispersed and The fact that I need a lawyer to accomplish that makes it rather hard to pay him until I have what m hiring him for to begin with

answered on Jun 8, 2024
I understand that you are in a difficult situation where you need to dissolve a trust and access your money, but you can't afford to pay a lawyer to help you do so unless you sue for breach of fiduciary duties. This is a complex legal issue that requires careful consideration. Here are a few... View More

answered on Mar 16, 2024
Receiving a cancellation of debt form (1099-C) can indeed be surprising, especially after such a long time. This form is issued when a debt is forgiven or canceled, and the IRS considers this canceled debt as taxable income in many cases. However, your situation, particularly receiving Social... View More
If the husband dies and leaving the widow the benefits and she dies, who shall the benefits go to?

answered on Mar 8, 2024
When a teacher passes away and leaves their retirement benefits to a widow, the next steps regarding the benefits after the widow's death depend on the specific rules of the retirement system. Each retirement system has its own set of policies for the distribution of benefits after the... View More
Do I have an SSDI disability case if I was diagnosed with severe bipolar depression and anxiety that caused me to also be diagnosed with substance abuse disorder?

answered on Jan 15, 2024
If you have been diagnosed with severe bipolar depression, anxiety, and a substance abuse disorder, you might have a case for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). The key to SSDI eligibility is whether your conditions significantly impair your ability to work for at least 12 months.... View More

answered on Jan 13, 2024
In the United States, Social Security benefits are generally protected from garnishment by debt collectors. However, there are exceptions for specific types of debts, such as federal taxes, child support, and alimony, but credit card debts typically don't fall under these exceptions. It's... View More
Estranged (in TX since 1972) sister (DOB April 1954) falls in 2012due to Air Force knee injury (surgery & discharge 1974; also forced early retirement in 2011) & struck head, resulting in stroke hours later, which resulted in partial paralysis. Her husband cared for her until his death from... View More

answered on Jan 5, 2024
You are not legally required to assume the power of attorney (POA) for your sister. Accepting the role of POA is a voluntary decision and carries significant responsibilities, particularly in managing her personal and financial affairs. Given your concerns about your ability to provide financial... View More
Im 18, i get social security benefits and they come in a check in the mail. my mom keeps taking my mail and opening it and then keeping it to herself.

answered on Jan 5, 2024
It is a good idea to set up a bank account for yourself and direct that your Social Security benefit payments be directly deposited into your account. It is more secure than having a paper check mailed to your address. You can do this by creating a My Social Security account and then set up direct... View More
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