Important Info for Social Security Disability and SSI Claimants

Periodically I like to post some useful information for Social Security Disability and SSI claimants in Tennessee.

For instance, as result of the 2012 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) of 3.6%, certain changes occur within the SSDI and SSI programs. As a result of the 2012 COLA, the following changes of note occurred:

• Substantial Gainful Activity Levels:
  • Non-blind: $1,010.00 per month
  • Blind: $1,690.00 per month
• Trial Work Period (TWP): $720.00 per month
• Earnings required for a Quarter of Coverage: $1,130.00
• SSI benefit:
  • Individual: $698.00
  • Couple: $1,048.00

Additionally, as of January of 2012, the processing times for “local” ODAR offices are as follows:

• Chattanooga – 215 days
• Kingsport – 240 days
• Knoxville – 304 days
• Middlesboro – 323 days

These processing times are the average from the time the Request for Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge is received by the ODAR till a hearing is held.

If you need more information about a personal injury matter (car wreck, boating accident, slip and fall, etc.), Social Security Disability or SSI matter, EEOICPA claim, or a workers compensation matter, please contact the Law Offices of Tony Farmer and John Dreiser for a free case evaluation. We can be reached at (865) 584-1211 or (800) 806-4611, or through our website. Our office handles claims throughout East Tennessee, including Knoxville, Chattanooga, Kingsport, Bristol, Johnson City, Morristown, Maryville, Rogersville, Dandridge, Tazewell, New Tazewell, Jefferson City, Strawberry Plains, Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Loudon, Kingston, Halls, Maynardville, Crossville, Cookeville, Jamestown, Sweetwater, Lenoir City, Athens, Oak Ridge, Clinton, LaFollette, Lake City, Jacksboro, Bean Station, Cosby, Newport, White Pine, Mosheim, Wartburg, Sunbright, Pigeon Forge, and Deer Lodge.