ALS Social Security Disability: Do This First

Learn how to apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI) after an ALS diagnosis, including how the ALS fast-track works, when Medicare starts, and what to do if you're denied. Attorney Tom Giordano, a founding partner at Pond Lehocky Giordano who leads its nationwide disability practice, joins ALS.Community member Charles Edens for a clear, practical walk-through of SSDI for people living with ALS. Tom's connection to ALS is personal, and he brings more than two decades of experience helping disabled individuals and families secure the benefits they've earned. In this webinar, you'll learn: • What SSDI is, and how it differs from SSI • Who qualifies, and how work credits count (including for younger applicants) • The five-step Social Security evaluation, and why ALS typically qualifies at step three • How the ALS fast-track works, and why you shouldn't wait to apply • When Medicare begins for people with ALS (the usual 24-month wait is waived) • How monthly payments, back pay, and benefits for spouses and dependent children work • What to do if your claim is denied, including the 60-day appeal deadline • Whether you can work while receiving SSDI, and how VA benefits fit in • Answers to questions from the audience If you've just been diagnosed, this is a good first stop. Applying early can keep financial stress from piling onto an already hard time. Please note: this webinar is for general information and peer support only. It is not legal, financial, or medical advice. Talk with a qualified attorney or your care team about your situation. Have a question for Tom? Bring it to the ALS.Community Forum, where members share what they've learned from lived experience. ALS.Community is a free, one-stop platform for everyone impacted by ALS. We bring together patients, caregivers, family, clinicians, and researchers to share, learn, and connect. Join our community today: www.als.community Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/als.community/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/als.community #ALS #SSDI #SocialSecurityDisability