Q&A: Social Security Disability Today

Why the Appeals Council Can Overturn a Fully Favorable Disability Decision

In this remastered episode of Q&A Social Security Disability Today, originally published on March 20, 2013, Attorney Anthony Reeves answers a question that can catch disability claimants completely off guard: Can the Appeals Council overturn a fully favorable Social Security disability decision? Tony explains how the Appeals Council operates, why it may review an Administrative Law Judge’s favorable decision on its own, and what can happen if the case is sent back for further review. He also breaks down the risk of benefits being stopped, the possibility of repayment, and why it is important to understand the specific issue the Appeals Council identified.  Remastered Date: May 18, 2026 This episode is part of the remastered Q&A Social Security Disability Today archive and is intended for educational and informational purposes. Because disability procedures can change over time, listeners should seek updated guidance for their individual situation.

Is There Bias Against Mental Health Claims in Social Security Disability? | Remastered from January 10, 2013

Originally published on January 10, 2013, this remastered episode of Q&A Social Security Disability Today addresses an important question that continues to concern many disability claimants: Is there a bias against individuals with mental health conditions in the Social Security Disability process? In this episode, Attorney Anthony Reeves explains why Social Security does not evaluate disability claims based on appearances or public opinion. Instead, the agency focuses on medical evidence, treatment history, medications, hospitalizations, and testimony from the claimant and others who know them. Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric illnesses can be just as disabling as physical impairments—even when the symptoms are not immediately visible to others. Topics discussed include: - How Social Security evaluates mental health claims - Why medical treatment records are critical - The role of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists - Substance use and its impact on disability cases - Why invisible illnesses should be taken seriously If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits based on a mental health condition, this remastered archival episode provides timeless guidance and reassurance. Originally Published: January 10, 2013 Remastered and Re-Released: May 10, 2026 Attorney Anthony Reeves Q&A Social Security Disability Today #SocialSecurityDisability #MentalHealthDisability #SSDI #SSI #Depression #Anxiety #BipolarDisorder #Schizophrenia #InvisibleDisabilities #AttorneyAnthonyReeves #DisabilityLaw

How Long Does a Social Security Disability Appeal Take? (REAL Timeline Explained) | REMASTERED (2012)

This is a remastered version of a classic Q&A from Q&A Social Security Disability Today, originally published on June 16, 2012, featuring Attorney Anthony Reeves. One of the most common questions in the disability process is: 👉 “How long will my appeal take before I receive a decision?” In this video, I break down the real truth behind Social Security Disability appeal timelines—something many claimants struggle to understand. ⚖️ Key Insights Covered: * Why there is NO required timeline for Social Security to issue a decision   * What your representative really means when they say “we have to wait”   * Typical wait times at each level: * Initial / Local Office: ~2–6 months   * Hearing Level: ~1 year or more   * Appeals Council: ~1–2 years   * Why switching representatives won’t speed up your case * How case volume and system structure impact delays * What happens when your case becomes significantly delayed 💡 If you’ve ever felt like your case is taking too long or that no one is giving you a straight answer—this video explains why that is the reality of the system.

Will Going Back to School Affect Your Social Security Disability? (Remastered | Originally Published June 1, 2012)

This is a remastered edition of a classic Q&A from Q&A: Social Security Disability Today, originally published on June 1, 2012. In this episode, Attorney Anthony Reeves breaks down a common and important question: 👉 Will going back to school affect your Social Security Disability benefits? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no—it depends on your circumstances. In this discussion, you’ll learn: * How Social Security evaluates daily activities when determining disability * Why going to school does NOT automatically disqualify you * The key factors that can impact your case, including: * Full-time vs. part-time enrollment * Academic performance (A’s, B’s, etc.) * Use of accommodations, tutors, or extended time * Online vs. in-person learning * Consistency with your claimed limitations ⚖️ The critical takeaway: Social Security doesn’t just look at what you’re doing—they look at how and under what conditions you’re doing it. If you’re applying for benefits or already receiving them, understanding how to explain your circumstances clearly can make a significant difference in your case.

The Judge Said I Lied” — Understanding Credibility in Disability Hearings (Originally 6/17/2023)

This is a REMASTERED episode originally released on June 17, 2023. In this discussion, we unpack two important Social Security Disability topics: • Does moving to another state affect your benefits? • Why does a judge sometimes say your testimony isn’t credible? While Social Security is a federal system, SSI cases require close attention to changes in living arrangements and financial support. Even small differences can impact your benefits.  We also take a deeper look at credibility determinations — one of the most misunderstood parts of a disability hearing. A judge questioning your credibility does not automatically mean they think you’re lying. Often, it comes down to how your statements align (or don’t) with medical records and prior reports.   If you’ve ever felt like your story wasn’t fully understood, this episode provides critical perspective.