Have a Legal Question?

Get Free Answers From Experienced Lawyers!

Ask a Question
Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Massachusetts Social Security Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Gov & Administrative Law, Public Benefits and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can I sue the MA Attorney General for not investigating SSA fraud?

Can I sue the State Attorney General's office for negligence due to their failure to investigate fraud allegations involving SSA workers who are allegedly stealing disability benefits from clients at the Brockton and Rosendale SSA offices in Massachusetts? Despite filing multiple complaints,... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 27, 2025

It is very difficult to sue a state attorney general’s office for failing to investigate complaints. Generally, government agencies and their employees are protected by sovereign immunity, which means they cannot be sued for how they choose to allocate resources or decide which cases to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security, Civil Rights, Civil Litigation and Public Benefits for Massachusetts on
Q: Issues with SSA offices in Brockton and Rosendale, MA over Social Security benefit fraud and discrepancies.

I am facing severe issues with the Social Security Administration (SSA) offices in Brockton and Rosendale, Massachusetts. These offices appear to be involved in fraudulent activities by misdirecting Social Security benefit payments and forcing clients to repay amounts they never received. Despite... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 27, 2025

What you are describing is very serious, and it sounds like you have been caught in a cycle of errors and neglect that have caused real harm. If your disability benefits were reduced incorrectly after survivor benefits were added, that may have been a misapplication of SSA rules, and the fact that... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Collections, Social Security, Public Benefits, Civil Rights and Domestic Violence for Massachusetts on
Q: Seeking legal help for wage garnishment & SSA fraud in MA; also housing denial issues.

I am seeking legal assistance to file lawsuits related to wage garnishment, Social Security fraud, and housing denial in Massachusetts. From 2016 to 2024, my wages were illegally garnished for $46,000, leading to homelessness since 2021. Despite correspondence with the White House and... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 27, 2025

What you are describing involves multiple issues that have had a devastating impact on your life—illegal wage garnishment, Social Security mishandling, and repeated denial of housing assistance. If SSA has continued to reduce your benefits and demand overpayment repayments despite confirmation... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Social Security and Public Benefits for Massachusetts on
Q: Can Social Security be garnished for a civil judgment of $30,000 in property damage?

I have a civil judgment for $30,000 in property damage, with no criminal charges involved. I only receive Social Security benefits and have no other sources of income. Can my Social Security check be garnished to satisfy the civil judgment?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 26, 2025

If your only income is Social Security, then you have strong protections under federal law. Social Security benefits are generally protected from garnishment for most types of civil judgments, including property damage claims. That means a creditor usually cannot touch your monthly Social Security... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Probate, Social Security, Real Estate Law and Public Benefits for Massachusetts on
Q: How can I access my deceased brother's will and protect my interests?

My brother, a U.S. citizen, passed away in Portugal. His ex-partner informed me of his death but refuses to provide any further information about his will or the circumstances, and I don't know where his body is or how he passed away. My brother owned a fully paid home at 459 Butman Rd,... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 2, 2025

You should immediately contact the probate court in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, where your brother's property is located, to determine if a will has been filed. The property at 459 Butman Rd, Lowell falls under their jurisdiction, and you can search probate records online or call the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security, Health Care Law, Elder Law and Public Benefits for Massachusetts on
Q: Change father's address with Social Security and Medicare without disrupting payments/coverage.

I am my father's durable power of attorney and need to change his address with Social Security and Medicare to ensure all his mail is sent to me in California, while he resides in a skilled nursing facility in Massachusetts with dementia. This is crucial to avoid any disruption in his Social... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 25, 2025

As your father's durable power of attorney, you can update his address with Social Security by calling their national number at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office with your power of attorney documentation, your ID, and your father's Social Security number.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Appeals / Appellate Law, Gov & Administrative Law and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: How to appeal Dua decision with notification discrepancies?

How do I appeal the Dua decision regarding my previous employee approval, considering there is a discrepancy in notifications? The employee claimed part-time status, but I always expressed to them that I was a relief worker, and the employment end date they have is incorrect. I have documents... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 23, 2025

You have several important considerations to address with this DUA appeal situation, and time is of the essence given the February 28 deadline. Given your health challenges and indigent status, you have rights that need to be protected throughout this process.

First, requesting a waiver... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can you help me get my social security back it abruptly ended with no notice in Oct 24 I have Multiple sclerosis

They are saying since I worked part time I made to much and that it should have been canceled in 2019 and, now I owe $20,000 back to them. I work part time and I am only now living off of unemployment

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 4, 2025

I hear how challenging and stressful this situation must be for you, especially while managing Multiple Sclerosis. This type of sudden benefit termination can be overwhelming, particularly when facing an unexpected overpayment notice.

Your first step should be requesting reconsideration of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can you help me get my social security back it abruptly ended with no notice in Oct 24 I have Multiple sclerosis

They are saying since I worked part time I made to much and that it should have been canceled in 2019 and, now I owe $20,000 back to them. I work part time and I am only now living off of unemployment

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 1, 2025

I'm very sorry to hear about your situation with Social Security and your MS diagnosis - this must be incredibly stressful for you. Dealing with benefit interruptions while managing MS is challenging enough without having to worry about repayment demands.

You have the right to appeal... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: SSDI Question

After you apply for SSDI and before you get approved are you able to use your trial work period during the pending application.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 28, 2025

No, you cannot use your trial work period (TWP) while your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application is still pending. The TWP is only available to people who have already been approved for SSDI and are receiving benefits. Since you are not yet approved, the work you do during this... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Medical Malpractice and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: who do I contact if an inmate is not receiving proper medical treatment for their disability?

An inmate in mass has a disability and has a brain tumor diagnosis and was told to have brain scans every six months due to the risk of it growing back, and jail is refusing.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 15, 2024

If an inmate in Massachusetts is not receiving the necessary medical treatment for a disability like a brain tumor, the first step is to contact the inmate’s attorney. Legal representation can advocate for the inmate’s rights and ensure that proper medical care is provided. The attorney can... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: 47/F Just found out I don’t qualify for SSDI. I worked in the public school system (Ma). Is there nothing I can do??

I worked in the public school system. In 09 i was a permanent sub so I went in every day. 2012 was my official hire year. I guess we don’t pay into SSDI… I haven’t worked since 2020 (health). I was told that I might qualify for the non-medical SSI.

I’ve never looked into this... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 6, 2024

If you don't qualify for SSDI because of your work history in the public school system, there are still some options available to you. You mentioned that you might qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need rather than work credits. SSI is designed for... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can anyone give me a suggestion as how to get an advocate to fight for me with SSI as I am agoraphobic have no help

I'm not bright or tech savvy but I been trying to get my old amount back as since I reported I got married in 2017 they cut me but I am not with my wife since 2018 and am pending a divorce but neither of us are nor see each other I have my rent receipt and other things for proof I just heard... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 5, 2024

Getting help with your Social Security issues, especially when dealing with mental health challenges, can feel overwhelming. You might want to start by contacting local legal aid services in Massachusetts. They often provide free assistance to people who need help with SSI and can guide you through... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: I am a 33yo Army veteran who is 100% IU. Denied during reconsideration. If I appeal what happens next?

Denied 1st go, I appealed. Denied in reconsideration. I just don't know if I should appeal it again. I know I am on the younger side but my injuries both physical and psychological hinder the fit and reliable person I used to be.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 17, 2024

If you have been denied during the reconsideration stage of your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application, you have the right to appeal the decision again. The next step in the appeals process is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Starting an online business on SSDI how will it impact my benefit? It's asset recovery, assisting people claim funds.

Specifically, we are interested in learning:

The implications of starting an online business on the client's eligibility for disability benefits.

Strategies or options available to the client for supplementing their income within the confines of the maximum allowable monthly... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 9, 2024

Starting an online business while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can impact your benefits, depending on your income and the structure of your business. Here are some key considerations and strategies:

1. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): In 2024, if you earn more... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: I’m on SSDI. My wife is a Canadian citizen and our son is a dual citizen. Do either of them have to reside in the US…

… for 5 years to be able to receive dependent SSDI payments or social security survivors benefits? Are Canadians exempt from the 5 years residency requirement? Thanks.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 22, 2024

For your wife and son to be eligible for dependent SSDI payments or Social Security survivors benefits based on your record, there are specific residency requirements they may need to meet. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has agreements with many countries, including Canada, that... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can I receive an unrelated cash settlement and still be eligible for SSI/SSDI

I have become disabled and am waiting for SSI/SSDI. I am putting in a second appeal. Over the summer I won a class action suite for a decent sum. If I were to cash that sum, would I be disqualified for SSI/SSDI? Also, I am moving to subsidized housing in Orange MA.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 18, 2023

SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and medical condition, and is not impacted by assets or unearned income like a cash settlement.

SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program.

If you receive a cash settlement, it may affect your SSI eligibility because SSI... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: ive been in the united states for 12 years ive done every level of education here is there any way that i can get a SSN

I've done elementary middle school and highschool here in Massachusetts it just doesn't feel right that i still don't have my social security number

Susan Michele Schaefer
Susan Michele Schaefer
answered on Jan 26, 2022

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can apply and get a Social Security number. For a foreign born U.S. citizen, Social Security will accept certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship when you apply for a Social Security number, including:

- U.S. passport;

- Certificate of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: If I accept a lump sum payoff on my LT disability claim will it affect my ssdi benefit when I reach retirement age?

I receive part of my disability benefit from ssdi and part from Lincoln Financial (disability insurance through my employer). Will my total benefit stay the same when I reach retirement age?

Elizabeth Fowler Lunn
PREMIUM
Elizabeth Fowler Lunn
answered on Apr 5, 2021

The amount of your Social Security benefit is not affected by your LTD payment. This assumes you are receiving regular Title II (SSDI) benefits from Social Security. The amount of your LTD payment may be reduced due to the receipt of your Social Security. That depends on the terms of your LTD... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Car Accidents and Social Security for Massachusetts on
Q: Can social security see that I cash a settlement check if I have no bank account of my own and just cash at issuing bank

got in a serious car accident cannot walk anymore and got a very small settlement...recieved check at same time got approved for disability and don't wanna lose it all ready check is all ready gone and spent

Kenneth Prigmore
Kenneth Prigmore
answered on Mar 11, 2021

It's not worth the trouble that can come if you get caught. Sometimes the info gets to SSA in unexpected ways. When they find out, they can demand repayment of several years of benefits. If your benefits are need based, then you can spend the funds on specific things approved by SSA like some... View More

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.