Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path

The Legal Podcast Network

Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path offers expert guidance for navigating disability benefits. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector of Spector & Lens, the podcast tackles SSDI, SSI, DAC, appeals, and more, helping individuals and families understand how to apply, qualify, and advocate for their rights in a complex system.

Episodes

  1. Do You Owe Taxes on Your Disability Benefits?

    17 OCT

    Do You Owe Taxes on Your Disability Benefits?

    Episode Summary In this episode, Deborah Spector, lead attorney at Spector & Lenz, breaks down how Social Security Disability (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), long-term disability, and workers’ compensation benefits are taxed. She explains the key income thresholds, what makes SSDI taxable, and why SSI usually isn’t. Deborah also shares what to know about double taxation, back pay taxes, and how to plan ahead with proper withholding or help from an accountant to avoid unexpected tax bills.   Key Timestamps 00:00 – Do you owe taxes on your disability benefits? 01:30 – Why SSDI benefits aren’t always tax-free 03:00 – Income limits for single vs. joint filers and how taxation applies 05:00 – Withholding options to avoid large tax bills 06:00 – How much of your SSDI can be taxed (up to 85%) 07:00 – Why SSI benefits are not taxable 08:30 – How other income (work, pension, LTD) affects SSDI taxes 10:00 – The role of long-term disability and workers’ compensation in taxation 12:00 – How SSDI back pay is treated for tax purposes 14:00 – The importance of consulting an accountant for tax planning 15:00 – Why everyone should create a “My Social Security” account on ssa.gov   About the Show The Disability Approval Path helps individuals understand and navigate the Social Security Disability process with clarity and confidence. Each episode offers straightforward legal insights and practical steps to help claimants protect their rights and make informed financial decisions.

    17 min
  2. Long-Term Disability Benefits, Workers’ Comp, and Social Security: How to Coordinate Them Without Losing Money

    10 OCT

    Long-Term Disability Benefits, Workers’ Comp, and Social Security: How to Coordinate Them Without Losing Money

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Deborah Spector breaks down the complex world of long term disability, workers compensation, and Social Security disability. She explains how these programs interact, what to watch out for, and how to avoid unexpected reductions or repayment demands.   What You Will Learn in This Episode: The difference between Social Security disability, workers compensation, and long term disability How long term disability insurance works, including employer-paid, employee-paid, and hybrid plans LTD offsets and how they affect your benefits The importance of filing applications and providing proper medical documentation Tax implications of different benefit types How to coordinate benefits to avoid surprises or owing money back When to consult an attorney and what to expect with fees Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and overview of benefits 02:10 – Differences between Social Security, workers compensation, and LTD 05:00 – How LTD claims are handled and the role of ERISA 08:20 – Understanding LTD offsets and repayment 12:10 – Taxes on LTD benefits and Social Security interplay 16:00 – Steps to coordinate multiple benefits without losing money 20:00 – Negotiating repayment and attorney guidance 21:20 – Closing remarks and resources About the Show: Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path helps individuals and families understand the often-confusing rules of Social Security. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector, each episode breaks down complex topics into clear, actionable guidance so listeners can maximize their benefits and protect their financial security.

    22 min
  3. GPO & WEP Repeal Explained: Social Security Fairness Act and What It Means for Public Employees

    3 OCT

    GPO & WEP Repeal Explained: Social Security Fairness Act and What It Means for Public Employees

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, lead attorney and managing partner Deborah Spector discusses the repeal of the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). These provisions previously reduced Social Security benefits for many public employees, including teachers, firefighters, and police officers. Deborah explains what these rules were, why they were eliminated through the Social Security Fairness Act, and how the change impacts retirees and disabled workers today. Listeners will learn about retroactive payments, tips for navigating benefit adjustments, and important precautions to avoid scams while dealing with Social Security. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show introduction 02:10 – What were the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP)? 06:35 – Why their repeal shocked experts after decades of resistance 10:22 – How the Social Security Fairness Act ended GPO and WEP 13:55 – Who is most affected by this change and how many workers benefit 17:40 – Retroactive payments: how far back they go and how much they can be 20:18 – What to do if you never applied for benefits because of GPO or WEP 23:12 – How to check your online Social Security account for adjustments 26:28 – Tips for communicating with Social Security and avoiding scams 30:10 – Deborah’s advice for families and spouses affected by the repeal About the Show: Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path helps individuals and families understand the often-confusing rules of Social Security. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector, each episode breaks down complex topics into clear, actionable guidance so listeners can maximize their benefits and protect their financial security.

    17 min
  4. Workers’ Compensation and Social Security: How They Work Together (and Sometimes Don’t)

    26 SEPT

    Workers’ Compensation and Social Security: How They Work Together (and Sometimes Don’t)

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, lead attorney and managing partner Deborah Spector talks about how workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability benefits interact. With more than 40 years of experience, Deborah explains the differences between the two programs, the potential for benefit offsets, and the importance of proper planning when handling both claims. The discussion also covers common mistakes, crucial paperwork, settlement structuring, and why timely action is key to maximizing benefits and minimizing stress for injured workers. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show introduction 01:22 – What workers’ compensation covers vs. Social Security Disability 04:55 – Can someone collect both workers’ comp and Social Security at the same time? 08:37 – Differences between SSDI and SSI in these cases 11:40 – Key paperwork Social Security requires to calculate offsets 14:50 – How settlement agreements can be structured to reduce offsets 19:15 – Tax implications of offsets and why clients should be prepared 21:08 – Why keeping Social Security informed of settlements is essential 25:20 – Best advice for workers considering both comp and disability claims 28:44 – Why applying for SSDI early prevents loss of benefits About the Show: Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path helps individuals navigate the complex rules of Social Security and maximize their benefits. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector, the podcast provides practical strategies, legal insights, and real-world examples to help listeners protect their rights and plan with confidence.

    18 min
  5. How to Strengthen Your Disability Claim with Medical Evidence"

    22 AUG

    How to Strengthen Your Disability Claim with Medical Evidence"

    Episode Summary: In this episode, experienced Social Security Disability attorney Deborah Susan Spector walks listeners through what really happens during a disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Deborah explains how judges evaluate medical evidence, weigh credibility, and consider vocational expert testimony when deciding cases. She breaks down common questions applicants can expect, how attorneys prepare clients for testimony, and why honesty and consistency are critical. Deborah also shares insights on how judges handle conflicting medical opinions, what factors can strengthen a case, and why representation significantly improves the chances of approval. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show introduction 01:20 – What actually happens at a Social Security Disability hearing 03:40 – How judges evaluate medical records and testimony 06:05 – The role of vocational experts in hearings 08:30 – Common questions judges ask claimants 11:10 – How attorneys prepare clients to testify effectively 14:25 – Why credibility and honesty matter in hearings 17:00 – How judges handle conflicting medical opinions 20:15 – Tips for strengthening a case before the hearing 23:40 – Why having legal representation improves approval rates 26:00 – Final thoughts and key takeaways from Deborah About the Show: “Social Security Disability: The Approval Path” is hosted by attorney Deborah Susan Spector, who has spent decades representing disability claimants through every stage of the SSDI and SSI process. Each episode provides practical advice, answers common questions, and helps listeners understand the complex world of Social Security Disability law.

    18 min
  6. What to Do If Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied

    19 AUG

    What to Do If Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied

    Episode Summary: In this episode, veteran Social Security Disability attorney Deborah Susan Spector talks about one of the most pivotal moments in the disability process—the administrative law judge hearing. Deborah explains what happens during the hearing, the role of the judge and vocational expert, and how medical records, testimony, and work history are evaluated. She also shares practical advice on how claimants can prepare, what questions to expect, and why legal representation is critical for improving the chances of approval. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show introduction 01:05 – What an administrative law judge hearing is and why it matters 03:10 – The role of the judge in disability cases 05:00 – How vocational experts influence disability determinations 07:15 – Common questions judges ask during hearings 09:20 – How medical records and testimony are evaluated 11:45 – The importance of claimant preparation and honesty 14:02 – Why having an attorney at the hearing increases approval chances 16:30 – What happens after the hearing decision is issued 18:40 – Deborah’s advice for first-time applicants facing a hearing About the Show: “Social Security Disability: The Approval Path” is hosted by Deborah Susan Spector, a seasoned disability attorney with decades of experience representing claimants through every stage of the SSDI and SSI process. The show offers practical guidance, answers common questions, and provides clarity for individuals navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability law.

    23 min
  7. Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

    8 AUG

    Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

    Episode Summary: In this educational episode, attorney Deborah Susan Spector of Spector & Lenz breaks down the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Deborah outlines the five-step evaluation used by the government, clarifies misconceptions about age, work history, and mental health conditions, and explains the appeals process in detail. This episode is essential listening for anyone unsure whether they or a loved one qualify for disability benefits. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show introduction 01:10 – SSDI vs. SSI: What’s the difference? 03:22 – How the government defines disability and the five-step evaluation process 06:35 – What is “residual functional capacity”? 08:40 – How age, education, and skill level impact eligibility 11:48 – Eligibility for individuals who haven’t worked or haven’t worked recently 13:10 – Why age plays a critical role in disability determinations 16:52 – Qualifying for disability with mental health conditions 20:05 – Can someone be denied even if their doctor says they’re disabled? 23:25 – How the appeals process works: reconsideration, hearing, federal court 27:02 – What if someone is unsure whether they qualify? 30:45 – Deborah’s role in evaluating cases and mentoring her firm 34:15 – Why she’s passionate about staying in this area of law About the Show: “Social Security Disability: The Approval Path” features veteran attorney Deborah Spector guiding listeners through the legal process of qualifying for disability benefits. With decades of experience, Deborah and her team at Spector & Lenz help individuals navigate a complex system with clarity, compassion, and strategic legal insight. Each episode demystifies Social Security law and empowers those who need it most.

    21 min
  8. What’s the Difference Between SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicare, and Medicaid?

    1 AUG

    What’s the Difference Between SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicare, and Medicaid?

    Episode Summary: In the debut episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, with attorney Deborah Spector, managing partner of Spector & Lens, to break down the complex world of disability benefits. With over 40 years of legal experience, Deborah explains the difference between SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicare, and Medicaid, cutting through government jargon with clarity. From defining eligibility to understanding the Social Security process, this episode is essential for families, individuals with disabilities, and caseworkers who want to understand their rights.   Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Introduction to Deborah Spector and the show’s mission 01:30 – Deborah’s journey from legal aid to disability law 04:10 – Why disability law is fulfilling and sustainable legal work 06:00 – What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? 08:00 – What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? 10:15 – Key differences between SSDI and SSI: insurance vs. welfare 13:00 – Who qualifies for SSI: income and asset limits explained 15:30 – Who qualifies for SSDI: work credits and recent work history 17:30 – How benefits are calculated and the 2025 income thresholds 20:10 – What is DAC (Disabled Adult Child) and who is eligible? 23:50 – Why DAC is Deborah’s favorite program 26:15 – How the Social Security Administration defines “disability” 28:30 – The 5-step sequential evaluation process used to determine eligibility 33:10 – Additional step: substance abuse and its impact on eligibility 35:00 – What to do if you’re unsure which program applies 36:30 – Advice for families of special needs children and retired parents 38:00 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Deborah Spector   About the Show: Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path offers expert guidance for navigating disability benefits. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector of Spector & Lens, the podcast tackles SSDI, SSI, DAC, appeals, and more, helping individuals and families understand how to apply, qualify, and advocate for their rights in a complex system.

    24 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path offers expert guidance for navigating disability benefits. Hosted by attorney Deborah Spector of Spector & Lens, the podcast tackles SSDI, SSI, DAC, appeals, and more, helping individuals and families understand how to apply, qualify, and advocate for their rights in a complex system.

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