Sometimes when people hear the words “asset protection” or “estate planning” they think those terms do not apply to them. They may think estates are only for the wealthy, or that only the rich have assets. But everyone has an estate. Your estate is made up of everything you own – home, vehicles, any investment
Continue ReadingIf you are a recipient of both Workers’ Compensation (WC) and Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you have likely heard the term “offset” when it comes to the two benefit programs. SSD benefits are offset, or reduced, by the receipt of WC. This is why it is important to be sure Social Security has all
Continue ReadingThe Workers’ Compensation Board has recently adopted a new policy as of 1/22/16 entitled “Reduction of Administrative Determinations for Claims with No Lost Time.” While it seems relatively harmless because it pertains to injured workers with no lost time from work, it actually speaks to an inaction by the Board which may result in problems
Continue ReadingNow that the year has come to a close, tax season will be upon us soon. There are a few things that you should be reminded of when filing your federal tax return if you are a recipient of Workers’ Compensation or Social Security Disability benefits. Generally speaking, Workers’ Compensation indemnity benefits are not considered
Continue ReadingWorkers’ Comp fraud is a very real thing. And it can result in very serious penalties. Just take a look at the recent local headlines out of Rochesterhttp://www.whec.com/article/stories/s3953268.shtml and Lockporthttp://www.lockportjournal.com/news/local_news/funeral-home-president-arrested-for-alleged-fraud/article_caab5c7e-c1de-5415-a238-6db2f2df73e4.html. In addition to losing weekly benefit checks and medical coverage, insurance companies can also seek charges in criminal court.
Continue ReadingFor a number of important reasons, our society needs to determine an age of majority. Yet, there is no uniformity, and the New York Workers’ Compensation Law (WCL) adds a different age into the mix: 25.
Continue ReadingMost of our clients are surprised when we tell them there are circumstances when they can receive both workers’ compensation and unemployment benefits at the same time. In fact, the interplay between workers’ compensation and unemployment benefits occurs at a beneficial time for our clients and it is important to understand how this works.
Continue ReadingA client recently asked whether he had to go to an IME. Of course the answer is yes, but based on our conversation, we understood clearly that his worry centered around the fact that the IME doctor wouldn’t likely be on his side. And his concerns ring true.
Continue ReadingSuffering from a disability and being out of work and out of the loop with your co-workers and friends can lead to feelings of isolation. It is common to turn to social media outlets to feel more connected to the “outside world.”
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