Monthly Archives: November 2020
How Federal Courts May Differ in Applying the Same Law to Social Security Disability Cases
Although Social Security disability benefits are governed by federal law, that law is not always applied uniformly throughout the country. Individual courts may interpret certain rules and procedures differently from one another, leading to a lack of uniformity. This means that in some cases, where you file your case may determine how it is… Read More »
Is Social Security Allowed to Ignore the Medical Advice of Its Own Doctors?
We often talk about cases where a Social Security administrative law judge (ALJ) rejects the expert medical opinions of a disability applicant’s treating physicians. In many cases, the ALJ will instead rely on the views of state agency physicians, who review the applicant’s medical records but do not necessarily examine them personally. Federal Court… Read More »
Can I Reapply for Disability If My Medical Condition Has Gotten Worse?
If Social Security denies your application for disability benefits, that is not necessarily a permanent decision. Besides appealing the denial itself, you can also reapply for benefits at a later date. If your medical condition has worsened–or doctors can present a more accurate diagnosis of your impairments–Social Security may be inclined to grant your… Read More »
What Are the Different Types of Medical Opinions That Social Security Must Consider in a Disability Case?
In considering an application for disability benefits, Social Security officials may consider three types of medical opinions: (1) those offered by the applicant’s treating physicians; (2) those offered by doctors who examined, but did not treat, the claimant; and (3) those offered by non-examining doctors who simply reviewed the applicant’s medical history and treatment… Read More »
