Noteboom The Law Firm

Stay Updated on the Fight for COLA

The majority of people who receive Supplemental Security Income or other government assistance are nervous about the Social Security Administration's final decision not to offer a cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA in 2010. It has been explained that it is due to the lack of inflation this year, so some officials do not see a need for it.

However, several politicians beg to differ. Many, including President Obama, have suggested a one-time check to help offset the loss of the extra money every month. Despite the protests of some who do not need the money, as well as the discouraging and consistently negative responses from those in charge, some politicians refuse to give up the fight.

According to Queens Chronicle, politicians from New York, City Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley and Rep. Anthony Weiner fully support the one-time payment of $250. The idea was proposed by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who notes that for about 70% of recipients, the monthly payments are over half their income. Thus, they depend greatly on the benefits, and any change could negatively affect them.

This is clearly a hotly contested issue. On the one hand, many citizens do not want to increase the national debt, and they claim that since there is no inflation, the extra payment is not warranted for 2010. Furthermore, they say a one-time payment would not really help anyone.

However, those in favor of the $250 check claim that it is better than nothing. Recipients could save it if they want, using a little bit every month as if they did receive the COLA payments.

Despite the fact that officials have said there will be no COLA, more and more politicians have come out in support of the payments, or at least one check. Time will tell if the lobbying by several powerful politicians has any effect on changing the minds of those in charge of COLA. Meanwhile, if you have any questions about the one-time check, or simply want to keep updated on its status, contact a lawyer.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida disability lawyers, LaVan & Neidenberg, represent over 5000 disability claimants. Our disability attorneys have experience with cross examining agency-appointed medical and vocational experts and take time when speaking with you about your disability claim. Call us today at 1-888-234-5758 for a FREE legal consultation. There is NO OBLIGATION to hire our firm and there are NO FEES unless one of our trained disability lawyers wins your case.