Law Offices of Terri D. Mason, P.C.

Can a Beneficiary Be the Trustee of an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust?

printed text irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT)In the realm of estate planning, setting up an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) is a popular strategy for preserving assets and providing financial security to beneficiaries after the grantor’s passing. The ILIT, a legal entity created to own and manage a life insurance policy, comes with its own set of rules and guidelines. One question that often arises is whether a beneficiary can also serve as the trustee of the ILIT. In this blog, we will explore the nuances of this topic, shedding light on the benefits, potential risks, and the considerations involved in designating a beneficiary as the trustee of an irrevocable life insurance trust.

Understanding Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs)

Before delving into the trustee-beneficiary dilemma, it is essential to comprehend what an ILIT is and its primary purpose in estate planning. An ILIT is a trust specifically designed to own a life insurance policy on behalf of the grantor’s beneficiaries. By placing the policy within the trust, the death benefit proceeds can be kept separate from the grantor’s taxable estate, reducing potential estate taxes and ensuring a smooth transfer of assets to heirs.

The Role of the Trustee in an ILIT

In an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT), the trustee holds a vital role as they are responsible for managing the ILIT in accordance with the grantor’s wishes. Their responsibilities are manifold and encompass:

In performing these tasks, it’s crucial for the trustee to uphold impartiality, with a focus on:

Pros of Naming a Beneficiary as Trustee

Selecting a beneficiary as the trustee of an ILIT can have several advantages. Firstly, the beneficiary-trustee likely has a personal vested interest in the success of the trust, as they stand to benefit from it. This personal involvement can motivate them to fulfill their fiduciary duties diligently. Additionally, the beneficiary-trustee’s knowledge of the beneficiaries’ needs and aspirations can lead to more thoughtful and efficient distribution of the life insurance proceeds.

Potential Risks and Challenges

While appointing a beneficiary as trustee has its merits, it is essential to consider potential risks and challenges. One of the primary concerns is the conflict of interest that may arise between the trustee’s role as a fiduciary and their position as a beneficiary. Balancing these dual responsibilities can be complex and may lead to disputes among other beneficiaries or legal challenges.

Furthermore, a beneficiary-trustee may not possess the necessary legal and financial expertise required to manage a trust effectively. Trust administration involves various legal and tax-related tasks that demand a high level of understanding and attention to detail.

To mitigate potential risks and ensure effective trust administration, it is crucial to seek professional guidance from an experienced estate planning attorney. Collaborating with an estate planning lawyer at the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can provide valuable insights into the complexities of trust management and help navigate any legal hurdles that may arise.

Law Offices of Terri D. Mason

The question of whether a beneficiary can serve as the trustee of an irrevocable life insurance trust demands careful consideration. While there are definite advantages to having a beneficiary-trustee, such as personal investment and familiarity with beneficiaries’ needs, there are also potential risks, including conflicts of interest and inadequate expertise. Ultimately, the decision should be made after a thorough evaluation of the specific circumstances and goals of the grantor and beneficiaries.

If you are contemplating setting up an ILIT or have concerns about trust administration, consulting with an estate planning attorney at the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can provide the guidance and support needed to make informed decisions and safeguard the financial security of your loved ones.

Remember, estate planning is a complex and critical process, and having a qualified attorney by your side can ensure that your wishes are executed smoothly and efficiently. Take the first step towards securing your legacy by reaching out to an estate planning attorney today.

To explore the possibilities of an ILIT or address any estate planning concerns, contact our experienced attorney at the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason.

acute psoriasis on the elbows is an autoimmune incurable dermatological skin diseaseIf you suffer from an autoimmune disorder, you may be eligible for disability benefits. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is the most common disability benefit, providing monthly benefits to people unable to work due to a medical condition. With this benefit, you can cover essential costs such as food, housing, and medical care.

However, these benefits are not guaranteed, so it is critical to work with an experienced Baltimore SS Disability lawyer. Terri D. Mason has over twenty years of experience advocating for people with disabilities, including those applying for autoimmune disease disability benefits.

Benefits Available to Maryland Residents

Maryland residents with autoimmune diseases have several options for receiving benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

SSDI is a benefit offered by the Social Security Administration to those who have worked long enough and paid enough Social Security taxes to be eligible. In addition, this program helps those who are disabled, elderly, blind, or have limited resources.

You must demonstrate that you are disabled due to a medically determined, severe mental or physical impairment. Then, the SSA will assess your condition to see if it prevents you from doing the type of work you did before. 

SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

SSI is a federal program that offers monthly benefits to people with limited resources who are blind, seniors, or have a disability. Children with disabilities whose parents have little income and resources may also qualify for this assistance.

When applying for SSI benefits, you must provide detailed information about your disability and any other relevant circumstances that could affect eligibility. Specifically, you must describe your current financial situation and any possible alternatives to government benefits.

Autoimmune Disability Evaluation

According to the “National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences,” scientists know about over eighty autoimmune diseases. Yet, fewer are listed on SSA as official autoimmune diseases that qualify for disability which include:

Even if your condition is listed above, it still must be severe enough to keep you from working for at least a year. However, if you suffer from an autoimmune disease not listed above, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, or Type 1 Diabetes, talk to an SS Disability lawyer to learn more.

One challenge you will have is determining which autoimmune diseases qualify for disability when not listed on SSA. This is one of the main reasons you must work with a Baltimore SS Disability lawyer.

Qualifying for Autoimmune Disease Disability Benefits in Maryland

To be approved for Social Security Disability benefits, you must prove that your autoimmune disorder has made it impossible for you to work. In addition, the Social Security Administration requires proof of missed time from work, such as the employer’s monthly timekeeping records or copies of bank statements.

Depending on the specific nature of your illness, you may require additional medical evidence to prove you cannot work. Furthermore, you must demonstrate that you have accumulated adequate income from past work to receive sufficient work credits (earned through working and paying Social Security taxes). When the Social Security Administration reviews your claim, they will consider whether your disease has restricted physical or mental functioning.

Access Your Autoimmune Disorder Disability Benefits With the Help of Terri Mason

Before SSA approves disability benefits for these autoimmune diseases, they consider several criteria. One of them is proving that your condition is severe enough to restrict your work capacity and causes intense pain and discomfort throughout your body. 

Terri Mason, a Social Security Disability attorney, can assist you in determining if you suffer from one of the autoimmune diseases that qualify for disability benefits. She also assists with preparing the application and gathering medical evidence to back up your claim.

If your autoimmune disease has rendered you unable to work, you must speak with our Social Security Disability attorney as soon as possible. Call the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason at 443-948-7772 to schedule a consultation with our lawyer with a proven client advocacy track record.

denied social security disability application formWhen you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, the slightest mistake can delay the process or result in denial. Unfortunately, thousands of qualified Americans receive denied Social Security Disability benefits every year because the jobs they used to hold have been replaced with newer ones. This mistake happens because the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses an outdated job list called the Dictionary of Occupational Titles that only reflects some job titles available. Fortunately, if you have been denied Social Security disability, the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can help. Below, we will discuss some of the issues our Social Security Disability lawyers can help with.

Denied Social Security Disability Application

Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration can be provided to individuals who cannot work for at least a year due to an illness or injury. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, applying for disability benefits can be a lengthy and laborious process. The good news is that a knowledgeable SS Disability lawyer can guide you through this application process and represent your interests should any appeals arise. 

To determine if you are disabled, the Social Security Administration requires the completion of an Adult Disability Report. Once the SSA reviews your application, they will notify you whether or not you are eligible for disability benefits. Otherwise, they may let you know they plan to review your case.

Many applicants receive denied Social Security disability at this stage. However, you can often appeal the decision in an administrative hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Therefore, having experienced Social Security Disability lawyers on your side during this critical step in the process is highly recommended.

Denied SS Disability Based on Obsolete Jobs

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses an evaluation process that considers your impairments and how they impact your capacity to work. They employ vocational experts to determine your needs for specific jobs as part of their evaluation process. These individuals will testify to available opportunities and determine if you possess the necessary skillset for one of them.

Unfortunately, vocational experts often rely on outdated job information when determining what jobs you can pursue. For instance, they might base on the Dictionary of Occupational Titles, which contains thousands of obsolete entries that have yet to be revised. 

Some obsolete jobs have been automated or sent offshore, while others are nonessential in today’s globalized society. Not surprisingly, if you have had Social Security disability denied, you may not have known about this flaw within the SSA. Fortunately, the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason is ready to be your advocate.

Fight Back Against Outdated Job Denials With Our SS Disability Lawyer

If your medical condition prevents you from working, Social Security Disability benefits enable you to pay your bills and maintain essential income streams. If you had a Social Security Disability denied, our SS Disability lawyer can help.

Social Security Disability lawyers can guide you through this process and guarantee all necessary evidence is collected and presented in a way that supports your claim. We understand what to look for during the application process, how to construct a compelling case, and how to handle hearings effectively. 

In filing an appeal, a judge will assess all evidence presented at this hearing. However, it may be daunting for individuals to go through this complex process alone.

As an experienced SS Disability lawyer in Maryland, Terri Mason will personally handle your case, gathering past and present medical records demonstrating your physical limitations and whether this condition has caused you to miss work. She will help calculate your benefit rate and eligibility.

We are here to guide you through the appeals process if you have a denied Social Security disability. Call us at 443-948-7772 to schedule your consultation.

social security insurance claim and accident lawsuitSocial Security Disability is a program that provides financial assistance to people with disabilities. However, the process of applying for and receiving disability benefits can be complicated. If you are considering filing for Social Security Disability or have already filed and been denied, it may be time to consult a Social Security Disability attorney. 

In this article, we will discuss when you should seek the help of a lawyer. From navigating the application process to dealing with appeals, a Social Security Disability lawyer can be an invaluable resource. So, if you think you may be eligible for disability benefits or have already been denied, read on to find out if it is time to consult a lawyer.

When Processing Your Application 

There are many reasons to seek legal advice from a Social Security Disability lawyer. One key reason is that these attorneys have the experience to help you navigate the application process and ensure you receive the maximum benefits. In addition, having an attorney review your application can help ensure that all necessary documents and evidence are included to support your claim correctly, increasing the chances of approval. 

This is particularly important given the complex nature of the Social Security Disability system and the various requirements that applicants must meet. A knowledgeable lawyer can help guide you through the process and ensure you meet all the criteria.

During the Hearings and Appeals Process

Another reason to contact a lawyer is that an attorney can represent and advocate for you at hearings and appeals. Legal representation at these crucial stages can significantly increase the chances of obtaining approval or overturning a denial of benefits. In addition, Social Security Disability attorneys can navigate complex legal processes. They can ensure that your case is presented in the most robust possible way at the hearings and any appeals.

Determining Your Alternatives

A disability attorney can determine if any other potential income sources are available to you besides Social Security benefits. For example, if you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for benefits through the Veterans Administration. Additionally, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income, a program that provides cash assistance for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or over 65.

Maximizing Your SSDI Benefits

The benefits of hiring Social Security Disability attorneys go above and beyond just getting your case approved. Having an experienced lawyer by your side can mean the difference between receiving the bare minimum and the maximum benefits available. In addition, these attorneys can provide invaluable advice on return-to-work options and long-term financial planning to ensure you maximize your benefits once approved. 

So, if you are struggling with a disability and unable to work, do not hesitate to seek the help of a reliable Social Security Disability lawyer to help you navigate the complex process of securing disability benefits.

Talk to Our Baltimore SS Disability Lawyer for Your Social Security Benefits

Consulting with a Social Security Disability lawyer is crucial if you are considering filing for disability benefits. These lawyers have extensive knowledge of the process and can provide detailed information on every aspect of the claim submission process. 

Our Baltimore SS Disability lawyer can provide the legal guidance and support you need to navigate this complex system. From documenting your claim to ensuring it is submitted correctly, our experienced attorney can help increase the chances of a successful outcome. With a deep understanding of Social Security Disability law, we can work tirelessly to help you get the benefits you need and deserve.

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a daunting task. If you are still trying to figure out what to do, it is time to consult a lawyer. Reach out to the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason, one of the trusted Social Security Disability lawyers in Maryland. Terri D. Mason is a Baltimore SS Disability lawyer who will happily assist you with all your SS disability needs.

disabled handicapped young man in wheelchair raised hands with his care helper in sunsetChances are, you have heard that getting approved for social security benefits due to a disability is challenging. From the time-consuming steps involved when applying to worrying about your income while you await the decision, many people entitled to disability benefits wonder if the process is even worth it. However, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), there are 9 million individuals or so in the United States who collect Social Security Disability benefits, proving that getting the benefits you deserve is possible with the help of a Baltimore SS Disability lawyer.

What Classifies as a Disability?

When you first begin looking into what conditions automatically qualify you for disability, it is important to note that while some are near-instantaneous green lights, others merely expedite the process. By definition, an individual is considered disabled if they cannot perform any substantial gainful activity due to a medical or physical impairment.

You may also want to be aware of the signs that you will be approved for disability benefits before you start the application process. These include:

Determining what qualifies as a disability for Social Security Disability benefits can vary depending on the individual’s medical and physical condition. However, knowing and meeting specific requirements can increase the chances of being approved for disability benefits before application.

What Conditions Automatically Qualify You for Disability?

It is essential to understand which medical conditions automatically qualify an individual for disability benefits. Automatic qualifiers are medical conditions that are so severe that they automatically meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. These disabilities are as follows:

Musculoskeletal System And Connective Problems

Arguably the most common disability among those entitled to disability benefits, musculoskeletal system and connective tissue problems involve damage to a person’s nerves, muscles, tendons, or ligaments. This category of disorder includes arthritis, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD)

Mental Disorders

The second most common type of disability eligible for Social Security benefits, mental disorders account for nearly 20% of all Social Security disability claims. Qualifying mental disorders cause extreme limitations in an individual’s ability to function independently. Examples of these disorders include mood disorders (such as severe anxiety, depression, or panic attacks), psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia), organic mental disorders (involving confusion, loss of cognitive ability, and memory loss), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and disorders falling on the autism spectrum).

Cardiovascular Conditions and Circulatory Disorders

Circulatory disorders that impact blood flow to the heart or the rest of the body can also qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Such disorders include angina, chronic heart disease, coronary artery disease, abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), and congenital heart defects.

Cancer

If you have a form of cancer that limits your ability to lift, stand, walk, sit, or remember, you may be entitled to disability. However, if your illness is not causing these symptoms on its own, but instead, they are being caused by the treatment you are undergoing, you may still be eligible for benefits.

One way to determine your eligibility is to review the SSA’s “Blue Book,” which lays out the specific medical criteria for whether or not you can receive Social Security Disability. If you cannot find your diagnosis on the list, the SSA will review your application and the specifics surrounding your illness to determine if you qualify. Obtaining a Social Security Disability lawyer to help you with your case can make a huge difference. 

Nervous System And Sense Organs Conditions

Neurological disorders vary greatly in both symptoms and severity. The SSA provides detailed guidelines on these types of conditions as with other types of disorders. Examples of what conditions automatically qualify you for disability include Parkinson’s disease or Parkinsonian syndrome, neuralgia, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), sciatica, partial or complete blindness, and hearing loss.

Maximize Your Chances of Approval With an Experienced SS Disability Lawyer

When applying for disability, thorough–and correct–documentation is critical. It is no secret that most disability claims are denied, causing unnecessary frustration and stress. The most common factors leading to denial are technical problems with an application and disqualification based on medical information, which is why you need an experienced Baltimore SS Disability lawyer.

You can seek help from a third party when applying for Social Security Disability benefits. At the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason, we pride ourselves on understanding your legal situation and working on getting you the outcome you deserve. Contact us, your trusted Baltimore SS Disability lawyer, today!

happy diverse school kids standing in outside corridor at schoolWhen researching the subject of disabled child Social Security benefits, parents and guardians may see a confusing array of descriptions noted for determining eligibility. For guidance throughout this process, consultations with social security disability attorneys should be sought. The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can help you explain the process while seeking reliable results from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Eligibility Criteria for Social Security Disability for Children

There’s a wide spectrum of criteria used to determine eligibility for children with disabilities.

The final source responsible for deciding eligibility for child social security disability benefits is the SSA.

The ruling of a specific disability for a child under the age of 18 means that the child will begin receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). An evaluation is done of mental and/or physical conditions, and it must be concluded that the child experiences perceptible or critical inadequacies that prevent them from functioning in a normal capacity.

The SSA is interested in learning about what these children can do but may have difficulty doing (or require help to complete) and what they can’t, possibly because they’re restricted from engaging in certain activities because of their impairment.

SSA Evaluation Standards

A disabled child will be assessed in the following areas in comparison to other children of the same age who don’t have any disabilities:

There are also numerous medical conditions that are considered in the decision-making process, which can interfere with a child’s ability to function in a normal capacity. For instance, attention deficit disorders prevent children from remaining focused long enough to complete certain tasks. Children suffering from disorders that cause significant pain will also have trouble concentrating or becoming involved in many activities.

The SSA Deemed Eligibility Chart

This chart will clearly explain how the SSI disabled child social security benefits work. This chart also explains that depending on the resulting evaluation, children might be eligible to receive SSI benefits as early as their date of birth until they reach the age of 18 years old. If benefits continue until the age of 18, then at that time, the case is re-evaluated according to how it’s evaluated for disabled adults.

Regarding childhood disabilities, the term “deeming” is applied to the combination of the parents’ and other household members’ income and resources to decide whether the child meets the income and resource requirements to receive a monthly SSI benefit. Deductions are made from the deemed total household income to determine the amount of SSI payments for child Social Security disability benefits.

SSI Payments for Children With Disabilities

The SSA only pays SSI to low-income disabled recipients with limited resources. This means that if the parents or guardians of the disabled child have income and resources that exceed the allowable income limits, then they won’t receive an SSI monthly allowance even if the child is determined to be medically or physically disabled.

Compassionate Allowances

Certain extreme medical conditions and diseases are identified and recognized immediately by the SSA, which can reduce the waiting time for reaching a decision. For instance, Compassionate Allowances (CAL) can be given for rare disorders and cancer diagnoses once the medical proof has been established.

The SSA also relies on information from medical and scientific experts, along with other government agencies, to help them quickly identify potential cases for social security disability child benefits that warrant implementing the CAL initiative.

Will all these, an experienced Social Security disability attorney would be needed in going through this process. Contact the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason at (443) 948-7772. Our office will work tirelessly to inform you of what you need to know while getting your child the benefits they deserve.

person hand filling social security benefits formObtaining social security disability benefits is not always an easy task. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of expecting it to be. They think that once they fill out their application, they will send it in and be approved for benefits in a timely manner. However, this is different from the way it works.

The Social Security Administration denied over 65% of initial social security disability applications. Some of these denials are due to technical or clerical errors, while others are denied for other reasons. As such, if you’re looking to obtain disability benefits, it’s strongly recommended that you seek disability lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland.

Understand the Qualification for Disability Benefits

One of the first ways disability lawyers like Terri Mason can help you if you’re trying to obtain disability benefits is to help you understand whether you or a loved one even qualify for benefits. To qualify for benefits, you have to meet the definition of disabled as outlined by the Social Security Administration. This is important to understand, as the definition provided by Social Security isn’t always the same definition a doctor may use.

Social Security disability lawyers like Terri understand what conditions qualify for SSDI and which don’t. As such, she can help you to understand if you qualify for benefits before you even start the process.

File for Disability Benefits

If Social Security disability lawyers feel that you meet the criteria for obtaining Social Security disability benefits, the next step that they’ll take in helping you to obtain these benefits is helping you to fill out the initial application. The majority of SSDI applications are denied due to errors. The application may be filled out incorrectly, or there may need to be more medical evidence provided for the administration to make a determination on your case.

Terri knows what Social Security is looking at when deciding whether to approve or deny a case. As such, they know how to fill out the initial application and what documentation to include with the application. Having this help right from the start can help you avoid long wait times and possible appeals related to your case.

Obtain Your Social Security Disability Benefits

Finally, as your SS disability lawyer, Terri can help you obtain the disability benefits you are entitled to by helping you to appeal your case if you were denied benefits.

If you filed an application on your own and were denied, it’s important to reach out to an attorney right away. You only have a limited amount of time to file an appeal. If you fail to do so, you may have to file a brand new case or may lose out on the benefits you may otherwise be entitled to.

Four different appeal stages can take place. Those include –

Social Security disability lawyers can take over your case, regardless of your stage in the denial and appeals process. Having a lawyer increases the chances of an appeal being successful, which ultimately helps you to obtain the benefit you’re entitled to.

Obtain Your Disability Benefits With Terri Mason

Trying to get Social Security disability benefits on your own can be challenging. There’s a lot of misinformation out there as to who qualifies for disability payments and what needs to be included when you submit your application. There are also a lot of mistakes that are made by individuals filling out their applications for the first time.

Disability lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland, can help you determine if you qualify for disability payments and then fill out the application, helping to reduce the likelihood of your filing being denied.

If you’ve already been denied, a top lawyer like Terri Mason can help you fight the denial. If you’re looking to obtain disability benefits, the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason would love to help you. Reach out to us today to get started.

career concept about social security disability benefits with phrase on the sheetMany people find the definition of “disability” for Social Security disability benefits to be confusing.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has very precise rules that apply to disability determinations. When evaluating claims, the SSA looks closely at both the work activities that a claimant can perform and the ordinary, everyday activities that a claimant can perform. While for social security disability house cleaning or other household work doesn’t determine the validity of a claim, the inability to do certain kinds of household chores can help prove a claimant can’t do gainful work.

This blog post will focus on how the ability, or inability, to do household chores can influence a Social Security disability benefits claim.

How Does Social Security Define Disability?

Social Security requires disability claimants to prove three things:

  1. The claimant suffers from a serious medical condition that prevents substantial gainful activity through work;
  2. The claimant can’t do the work they did previously or adjust to other work because of the serious medical condition;
  3. The condition has lasted or is expected to last for more than one year or result in death.

The test is a very strict one. When a claim is filed, Social Security will review both the medical records of the claimant and require the claimant to fill out an evaluation form showing exactly what sort of work and life activities are possible. In many cases, the simple activities of daily living can be used as evidence to show that the claimant can’t engage in gainful activity.

How Can Evidence of Household Chores Influence a Disability Claim?

Many of the ordinary tasks we do every day represent skills that carry over into the work environment. For example, if you have a medical condition that prevents you from buttoning your clothing or picking up small objects like coins, you may also be unable to perform fine manipulations on the job, like punching small buttons or picking up objects in the workplace.

Similarly, if you’re unable to stand for long periods of time or to perform repetitive tasks like raking leaves or shoveling snow, you may not be able to perform repetitive actions or walk on the job.

The Social Security disability evaluation looks at mental and psychological capacity as well as the ability to perform physical tasks. If an applicant has lost interest in socializing with friends or taking part in hobby activities, the fact could be used to demonstrate that the applicant is suffering from depression or some other psychological condition that prevents employment in the workforce.

In preparing a disability evaluation form, the applicant should look for opportunities to explain how the limitations in their everyday life affect their ability to engage in work. Any lack of capacity to perform the activities of daily living should be highlighted as a means of demonstrating to the Social Security hearing officer that the claimant is disabled according to the definition of the SSA.

If a caregiver is assisting the claimant, then the caregiver can often shed light on the ability of the applicant to perform household chores and work in the workforce. A good Social Security disability lawyer will assist the claimant in developing the facts of the case by exploring how the medical condition of the claimant affects all aspects of life, including household chores, outside activities, hobbies, and work.

Can Disability Lawyers MD Help With Your Social Security Disability Claim?

Social Security disability claims are complex and often difficult to prove. Many times the claimant is denied at the initial hearing and prevails only after one or more appeals. Claimants shouldn’t be discouraged, though.

If you or a loved one require the assistance and advice of a Social Security disability lawyer in Baltimore, we can help. The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason in Baltimore have provided clients with aggressive representation for nearly a quarter-century. We’ve assisted many satisfied clients in gaining Social Security benefits.

If you live in Baltimore or the nearby counties, contact us today for a consultation. We would be delighted to meet you and evaluate your case. We’ll handle your legal work with compassion and care. 

young woman in a mental therapy session talking with a psychologist in the officeWhen people think of symptoms, their first thoughts are swelling, rashes, skin discolorations, or other visible signs. But mental illnesses don’t give off what most doctors or the Social Security Administration (SSA) would consider physical symptoms.

If you’re dealing with a mental illness, the only signs you may be able to see are a person’s actions. It’s what’s going on inside their mind is causing their problems. Since those thoughts or disruptions aren’t visible, it’s much harder to prove they exist.

In this blog, we’ll discuss mental illness disability benefits and how the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can help you.

Mental Illness

Mental illness encompasses many disorders, each having its own symptomology that sets them apart from the rest. Disorders can range from mild to severe and wreak havoc on a person’s ability to live and act in a normal manner.

These disorders can cause a person to want to harm themselves or others. They may not be able to process information properly, causing them to have difficulty if they try to live on their own and take care of their personal affairs.

What Mental Illnesses Qualify for Social Security Disability?

Several mental illnesses qualify for Social Security benefits. Even though the symptoms may not be something you can externally see on the body, the person’s actions and tendencies often speak for them. The most commonly recognized mental illnesses that qualify a patient for Social Security disability benefits include the following but are not limited to:

Patients are often placed on strong medications to control their actions. The medications work for many people, but for others, they don’t. Trying to live a productive life while using different medications is sometimes more disabling than the disorder. This is where filing for mental illness disability benefits comes into play.

Social Security Disability Benefits

In order to qualify for Social Security disability for mental illness, the patient has to prove they have a mental disorder that significantly impacts their quality of life as well as their ability to live on their own. This may include taking strong psychotropic medications and being under the supervision of a medical professional specializing in treating mental disorders.

The SSA will rarely take the word of a physician on their own merit. You’ll need to continually provide documentation and substantiated proof that you’re incapable of living a regular life. It’s not unheard of to be denied multiple times due to a lack of information or a statement by your doctor.

The deadlines for applying and appealing are strict. Missing one deadline could require that you start the entire process from the beginning.

Finding the Right Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a mental illness that makes you or them eligible to receive disability benefits, you’ll want to find a lawyer who specializes in this type of case. These cases aren’t resolved easily and may take two or three years to finalize, sometimes longer.

You want an attorney who can continue to fight for your rights and will ensure that you get the Social Security disability benefits you deserve. This entails constantly meeting deadlines and updating your case file so that it contains the most accurate information and the most current case notes from your doctor.

If you’re looking for the best Baltimore SS disability lawyer to handle your case, contact the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason today. She has been an advocate for individuals who have been diagnosed with mental illnesses for over 20 years and understands the difficulties her clients face when their lives are not their own.

Individuals with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities are often discriminated against and become victims of their disorders. Ms. Mason works diligently to ensure that her clients get the respect they deserve and the benefits they need to have the best quality of life they can have. Call us today and find out how to get started with the disability for mental illness process.

depression and anxietyAnxiety is a mental health disorder that is characterized by feelings of worry, tension, and fear. These symptoms can interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily life. 

Everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their life. These feelings are persistent and can be overwhelming for those with a disorder.

There are several different types of anxiety disorders which we detail below. Symptoms of anxiety can vary from mild to severe and can include the following:

If you suffer from anxiety, give us a call. We will help you determine if you qualify for disability and receive benefits.

How To Get Diagnosed With Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are generally diagnosed by a mental health professional—the professional assists in determining what mental illnesses qualify for disability. 

They will conduct a clinical interview and may also administer psychological testing. The professional will ask questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also want to know if you have any medical conditions causing your symptoms. 

Diagnosis of an anxiety disorder is based on the severity and frequency of your symptoms.

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders

Below are a few common anxiety disorders:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

This type of disorder is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about everyday things. People with a generalized anxiety disorder may worry about their health, work, or finances.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a disorder that is characterized by unexpected and recurring episodes of intense fear. These panic attacks can include physical symptoms such as a racing heart and chest pain.

Agoraphobia

A disorder characterized by a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of a panic attack.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is a type of  disorder someone has with roots in a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks and avoidance of situations that remind the person of the event.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

This type of disorder is distinguished by intruding and undesired, compulsive thoughts and repetitive, uncontrollable behaviors.

Social Anxiety

This type of disorder is characterized by extreme self-consciousness and fear of social situations.

Is Anxiety Considered a Disability?

Anxiety disorders can be considered an anxiety disability if they significantly interfere with your ability to function in your daily life. To qualify for disability benefits, you must show that your anxiety disorder is severe enough to prevent you from working or participating in other activities. For example, if you have panic attacks that prevent you from leaving your home, that can be considered a disability.

Applying for Disability and Social Security Benefits

If you have a disorder that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. To qualify for getting disability for anxiety, you must show that your anxiety disorder is severe and that it has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months (or otherwise noted by a qualified health professional). 

You must submit medical evidence of your condition, such as a diagnosis, from a mental health professional to the Social Security Administration. If you are approved for benefits, you will receive monthly payments that can help you.

If you are interested in applying for Social Security disability benefits, an attorney can help. You can get help from disability lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland. 

SSDI Maryland disability lawyers can assist you with the application process and help you gather the necessary medical evidence. A social security disability lawyer in Baltimore can also help you appeal the decision if your application is denied.

The Law Offices of Terri D. Mason can help you or your loved one apply for Social Security disability benefits if you or they have a disorder. We can assist you with the application process and help you gather the necessary medical evidence. We can also help you appeal the decision if the application is denied. Contact us today at 443-948-7772 for a consultation.