The Social Security Administration recently announced a 1.5 percent benefit increase for 2014. This is one of the lowest raises in years due to the economic stagnancy that has plagued the country in previous years. The 1.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that more than 57 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2014, according to the Social Security Administration. If an individual in Wisconsin is looking to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, he or she has the right to be legally represented while pursuing a claim to assist in the process.
The increase comes at no better time for those with disabilities who have medical bills recurring and medications or equipment to pay for regularly. The increase on a monthly average for each check will be anywhere from $19 to $1,294. When most people receiving Social Security Disability benefits cannot hold down a job, this small increase is essential to their livelihood.
Meeting basic needs on a minimal income is hard enough for most people suffering with disabilities. If assisted care is needed, monthly expenses are even higher. Going month-to-month waiting on a small paycheck can create a challenge for anyone, but going without necessities such as medication is out of the question for those who are disabled.
Wisconsin individuals who are recently disabled or unable to qualify for Social Security Disability can find representation and work toward a favorable appeal. The Social Security Administration increase in benefits is perhaps better than none at all, but it is a historically small increase nonetheless. If an employee or former employee in Wisconsin is facing disability and trying to survive economically without working, he or she may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits.
Source: stltoday.com, Higher increases for Social Security are much-needed : Stltoday, Joanne Grana, Jan. 2, 2014
