Public Benefits

Most people would jump at the chance to earn additional income or to receive a large cash gift from a friend or relative. But for SSI recipients, extra income sometimes causes more problems than it's worth.

President Obama recently signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, better known as the second economic stimulus plan, into law. Here is a summary of some of the key provisions designed to help people with special needs.

A new bill introduced for the third straight session of Congress hopes to phase out the two year waiting period before SSDI beneficiaries receive Medicare.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (aka the stimulus bill), Congress has authorized one-time $250 payments to most Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries.

Uniform Transfer to Minors Act accounts are an easy, efficient way for family members to set aside money for children. But these accounts can also cause serious problems for SSI beneficiaries when the account funds suddenly become available resources.

Taking care of a loved one with special needs can be exhausting and stressful. Here are some ways to take care of yourself and make sure you can take care of your loved one.

National Authority on Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income Brings Fresh Ideas and More than Three Decades of Experience to the Association.

The Social Security Administration recently issued its 2009 Cost of Living Adjustments, which result in slightly larger Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) awards for 2009, amongst other changes.

While President-elect Obama's initial focus will doubtless be the economy when he takes office, those with special needs should be able to look forward to initiatives that will create positive change.