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The Monthly Information Package November 2024 from Social Security Columns & Features HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM SOCIAL SECURITY VETERANS AND ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY MEMBERS: SOCIAL SECURITY HAS YOUR BACK! WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO CHECK YOUR EARNINGS HISTORY SOCIAL SECURITY CAN HELP YOU START OR RETURN TO WORK WILL REMARRYING AFFECT MY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS? Produced at U.S. taxpayer expense. Social Security Column HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM SOCIAL SECURITY Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our blessings and to share memories with our loved ones. During this holiday season and throughout life’s journey, we are here to help provide you and your family with services, benefits, and information about our programs. Social Security is more than just a retirement program. We provide services that assist many families across this country. We are there for joyous moments like the birth of your child and issuing their first Social Security card. We are there during times of hardship and tragedy to provide disability and survivor benefits. And we’re there to help you celebrate your retirement, too. We’re here to serve you online, by phone, and in person at a local Social Security office. You can learn more about our many services at www.ssa.gov . Please share this information with those who need it. Happy Thanksgiving! # # # Social Security Column VETERANS AND ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY MEMBERS: SOCIAL SECURITY HAS YOUR BACK! Veterans Day is on Monday, November 11, 2024. We honor all veterans who served our country and risked their lives to protect us. If you know a veteran, please let them know about our Military and Veterans webpage at www.ssa.gov/people/veterans . On that page, we have information about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for veterans, including: How SSDI benefits are different from benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application. How we expedite the processing of Social Security disability claims for service members. Answers to questions asked about Social Security. Some active-duty military service members are unable to work due to a disabling condition but continue to receive pay while in a hospital or on medical leave. They should consider applying for SSDI. Active-duty status and receipt of military pay doesn’t necessarily prevent payment of SSDI benefits. Our Military and Veterans webpage is easy to share on social media and with your friends and family. Please consider passing this information along to someone who may need it. ### Social Security Column WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO CHECK YOUR EARNINGS HISTORY It may have been years or even decades since you thought about how much you earned at your first job. Did you know that you can find out how much you made that first year? Or any year you worked and paid Social Security taxes? Your earnings history is a record of your progress toward your future Social Security benefits. We track your earnings so we can pay you the benefits you’ve earned over your lifetime. That is why it’s so important for you to review your earnings record. Even though it’s your employer’s responsibility to provide accurate earnings information, you should review your earnings history and let us know if there are any errors or omissions. Otherwise, your future Social Security benefits could be lower than you should receive. It’s important to identify and report errors as soon as possible. If too much time passes, it could be hard for you to get older tax documents. Also, some employers may no longer exist or be able to provide past payroll information. The best way to verify your earnings record is to visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount and create or sign in to your personal my Social Security account. You should review your earnings carefully every year and confirm them using your own records, such as W-2 forms and tax returns. Keep in mind that earnings from this year and last year may not be listed yet. When you have a personal my Social Security account, we send you an email once a year, 3 months before your birthday, to remind you to check your earnings and to get future benefit estimates. If your Social Security earnings record is incorrect and does not match your personal records, you may be able to submit a correction request online using your personal my Social Security at www.ssa.gov/myaccount . If that feature is available in your personal my Social Security account, you can use the online process to correct missing earnings, inaccurate earnings from a valid employer, or earnings from an employer you did not work for. You’ll need to provide: Your address if we need to contact you about your request. Details about your correct earnings and employer. Evidence or proof of correct earnings, if available. You can electronically upload your proof (W-2, W-2C, tax return, wage stub, pay slip, etc.) in a JPG or PDF format. After you successfully submit your evidence, you can print or save a receipt. Earnings corrections cannot be processed online if they are for: The current or prior year, which may not be recorded yet. Self-employment. Railroad Board. Certain years before 1978. Also, you cannot submit an earnings correction online if you: Receive Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicare. Have applied for Social Security benefits or SSI. If you cannot correct your earnings online, call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to request a correction. Start a conversation today. Ask a family member or friend about their first job and let them know they can find out what they earned that year! # # # Social Security Column SOCIAL SECURITY CAN HELP YOU START OR RETURN TO WORK If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and want to start or return to work, we can help. Ticket to Work (Ticket) is a program that supports career development for SSDI beneficiaries and SSI recipients who want to work and achieve financial independence. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. Learn more about the Ticket program at www.ssa.gov/work or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Our blog article Celebrate the ADA and Ticket to Work During Disability Pride Month at blog.ssa.gov/celebrate-the-ada-and-ticket-to-work-during-disability-pride-month , also provides additional information on the Ticket program. The Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) program also helps people with disabilities start or return to work. A PASS allows you to set aside resources and income other than your SSI for a specified period. With a PASS you can pursue a work goal that will reduce or eliminate your need for SSI or SSDI benefits. We can refer you to a vocational rehabilitation counselor who can help you figure out your work goal. You can also set up a plan to cover the costs of vocational services (including testing and business planning). The PASS must be in writing, and we must approve the plan. You can access the application at www.ssa.gov/forms/ssa-545.html . Or contact your local PASS Cadre or local Social Security office for the Form SSA-545-BK. You can get help writing your plan from Ticket service providers, vocational counselors, relatives, and representatives. For more information about the PASS program, read Working While Disabled—A Guide to Plan to Achieve Self-Support at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-11017.pdf or the Red Book —A Guide to Work Incentives at www.ssa.gov/redbook . A job isn’t just a source of income — it can be a vehicle to independence or a step to fulfilling your dreams. Let our Ticket to Work or PASS programs help you achieve your goals. # # # Social Security Column WILL REMARRYING AFFECT MY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS? Are you getting remarried? If so, we can help you with Social Security related questions regarding your remarriage. You may be wondering how your new marriage affects your Social Security benefits now or in the future. Remarrying may affect your benefits if you receive (or expect to receive) any of the following: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments – Your SSI eligibility and payment amount may change (or stop) due to your new spouse’s income and resources. Surviving spouse or divorced surviving spouse benefits – If you remarry before age 50 – You won’t be eligible for survivors or disability benefits as a surviving spouse unless your later marriage ends by divorce or annulment. If you remarry between the ages of 50 and 59 – You may be able to get benefits as a disabled surviving spouse (or disabled surviving divorced spouse) if you were disabled and unable to work when you remarried and your remarriage occurred after age 50. If you remarry before you reach age 60 and that marriage ends, you may be able to get benefits on your previous deceased spouse’s record. If you remarry after age 60 – You may be eligible for survivors benefits on your deceased spouse’s record or benefits on your new spouse’s record. Divorced spouse’s benefits – Generally, if you remarry, benefits paid to you on your former spouse’s record stop. You should report your new marriage to us to avoid being overpaid. Children’s benefits (under age 18 or full-time student ages 18 or 19) – Under certain circumstances, we may be able to make payments to stepchildren of a worker who receives retirement or disability benefits. To learn more about how your new marriage will affect your Social Security benefits now or in the future, read our blog post Will Remarrying Affect My Social Security Benefits at blog.ssa.gov/will-remarrying-affect-my-social-security-benefits . Please share this with family and friends – and post it on social media. ###

In an ideal world, renting a property in Vermont should be a smooth and enjoyable experience for both landlords and tenants. But disputes between these two parties can sometimes arise, leading to unnecessary stress, financial burdens, and even legal consequences. At Welford & Sawyer, PC, we help both landlords and tenants prevent and resolve such disputes. Read on, as we discuss practical tips to help you avoid common conflicts and maintain a positive rental relationship. Know and Understand Vermont's Rental Laws One of the key factors in avoiding misunderstandings and disputes is having a clear understanding of Vermont's landlord-tenant laws. Both landlords and tenants should make themselves familiar with rights and responsibilities outlined in the Vermont State Statutes Title 9 Chapter 137, which provides a comprehensive overview of the rules governing rental properties in the state. Establish Clear and Well-Defined Lease Agreements A well-drafted lease agreement is integral for setting expectations and preventing disputes. Landlords should ensure that all essential terms and conditions are explicitly stated in the lease, such as the rental amount, payment due dates, pet policies, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding property access. Tenants should review the lease thoroughly before signing and seek clarification if they have any questions or concerns. Maintain Regular Communication A healthy landlord-tenant relationship requires open and transparent communication. Landlords should promptly address any maintenance issues reported by tenants and keep them informed about any changes or repairs taking place within the property. Similarly, tenants should promptly inform the landlord of any necessary repairs or potential issues before they escalate. Building a foundation of trust through effective communication can help resolve minor concerns before they become major disputes. Conduct Thorough Move-in and Move-out Inspections To protect both parties' interests, landlords should conduct a move-in inspection with the tenant present to document the property's condition at the beginning of the tenancy. Documenting existing damages or issues helps avoid conflicts over security deposit deductions later on. Likewise, conducting a move-out inspection along with the tenant at the end of the lease ensures both parties agree on the property's condition and minimizes disputes regarding the return of the security deposit. Promptly Address Maintenance and Repair Issues Maintenance-related conflicts are a common source of disputes between landlords and tenants. Landlords have a legal responsibility to provide safe and habitable living conditions. Tenants should promptly report maintenance issues to the landlord in writing, specifying the problem and requesting repairs. It is equally crucial for landlords to promptly address these concerns, keeping a paper trail of all maintenance requests and resolutions. Mediation and Legal Assistance In the event of a disagreement between the landlord and tenant, it is advisable to explore mediation services or seek legal advice from a qualified attorney specializing in landlord-tenant law. Mediation can help promote constructive dialogue, reaching mutually agreeable resolutions that avoid costly and time-consuming court proceedings. Engaging a knowledgeable Vermont real estate attorney can provide guidance in understanding your rights and legal options while ensuring a fair outcome. Contact a Vermont Landlord-Tenant Lawyer Today By proactively educating themselves, fostering open communication, and following legal guidelines, both landlords and tenants in Vermont can significantly reduce the risk of disputes. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to landlord-tenant conflicts. Should a disagreement arise, reaching out to a reliable law firm can provide the necessary expertise and support to resolve the situation amicably. If you have questions about a landlord-tenant dispute or other real estate matter, contact the VT real estate team at Welford & Sawyer , PC today for a confidential consultation about your case.

Although there is no legal requirement to have a lawyer if you are getting divorced in Vermont, the decision not to use one is rarely wise. Even amicable splits can quickly become contentious when problems occur, and unexpected issues arise in the friendliest of divorces. The decision not to use an attorney is typically based on the desire to save money. But without legal counsel, even minor oversights and challenges can turn into costly mistakes, major headaches, and countless hours of unnecessary time. There is an unfortunate misconception that hiring a divorce attorney costs a fortune, but this is typically only true of divorces that are highly complex and / or contentious. If you believe that your split will be relatively amicable and straightforward, a divorce lawyer can even mediate for you and your spouse. In this scenario, you may be able to reach an agreement without ever having to go to court. Grounds for Divorce in Vermont In Vermont, you can get a no-fault divorce. This means that you don’t have to cite adultery, cruelty, or any other specific circumstances for your split. You can just decide that you don’t want to be married any more. You do, however, have to prove to the court that you and your soon-to-be ex having been living “separate and apart’ for a minimum of six months. Interestingly, living “separate and apart” doesn’t have to mean in different houses. Another requirement for divorce in Vermont is that at least one spouse must have lived in Vermont for a minimum of one year at the time the divorce is finalized. You can, however, begin the initial filing after six months of living “separate and apart,” even if neither partner has resided in Vermont for at least one year. How a Vermont Divorce Attorney Can Help A good divorce lawyer can do a lot more than explain your legal rights and fill out paperwork. Having a trusted attorney by your side can make the process significantly easier, quicker, and even less expensive. Your divorce attorney can: Answer all of your questions; Ensure that your children’s best interests are protected at all times; Advise you about the division of assets and other property; Ensure that all paperwork is filled out accurately and on time; Negotiate for the best possible settlement; Anticipate issues before they arise; and Provide emotional support. Emotions can run high during a divorce, especially when children are involved. This is rarely the best time to make decisions. Your attorney can provide sound advice with your best interests in mind, and from an unemotional, grounded space. Contact a Vermont Divorce Lawyer Today Whether you are just considering divorce or are facing a particularly challenging split, the skilled divorce attorneys at Welford & Sawyer, PC can help. Our highly knowledgeable and compassionate team will review the details of your situation and help you obtain the desired outcome in the most cost-effective and painless manner possible. Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your case.

It’s no secret that today’s housing market in Vermont is, in a word, competitive. Bidding wars on homes are commonplace, and as a result, properties are spending very little time on the market. In today’s market, is it worth the extra time and money to retain a real estate attorney when you are looking to buy a house? What is a Real Estate Attorney? Before considering whether or not a real estate lawyer is worth the expense, it may be helpful to learn what it is they do for prospective homebuyers. Generally speaking, the primary function of a real estate attorney is to ensure the safe, legal transfer of a home from a seller to a buyer. Any party can have legal representation, including lenders. Some states even require that attorneys participate in the process. This is not the case in Vermont, but it is absolutely in your best interest to do so. When you hire a VT real estate lawyer, you have someone who is looking out for your best interests, and your interests alone. It may come as no surprise to hear that, in most cases, the parties involved in real estate transactions are typically only concerned with their own interests. In an industry as complex, competitive, and constantly evolving as real estate, the benefits of having someone on your side cannot be understated. A real estate lawyer will review documents related to the purchase, sale, and title of the home. This may involve the purchase contract, lending documents, titles, and other agreements. They will also attend closing. The above is what real estate lawyers do to protect your best interests when the purchase/sale of a home is relatively straightforward. When things go wrong, however, having legal counsel by your side becomes even more critical. What Can Go Wrong, and How Can a VT Real Estate Lawyer Help? Buying a home at any point can be complicated, but when buyers or sellers feel rushed, the chance of something unexpected happening increases exponentially. Unfortunately, this means that — in the current market — your home purchase is likely to include an unwelcome surprise or two. If you have a real estate attorney, you can breathe easier knowing that someone has your back. A Manchester real estate lawyer can help with all real estate matters, including: If an issue comes up at inspection, your real estate attorney will be able to advise you of your options. With homes being flipped so quickly, concerns frequently crop up at inspection time. Speaking of flipped homes, not all renovations and additions are done lawfully. An experienced real estate lawyer can look at the permits issued for a property to ensure that all work done to the home aligns with local zoning ordinances and regulations. Questions around titles do happen. An attorney familiar with real estate transactions will be able to review the title, explain title exceptions, and determine any other issues relating to past owners or liens. Closing fees, costs, and other expenses may seem unreasonable, or a lender may try to nickel-and-dime an unsuspecting buyer. A real estate lawyer can review closing documents and agreements, ensuring the buyer pays only what is fair. If the buyer intends to alter the property after purchasing it, their real estate lawyer can ensure that work is done lawfully. Contact Welford & Sawyer, PC Today All homes are different, as are all seller and buyer situations. Even in relatively straightforward transactions, surprises happen. Having a VT real estate attorney look over the paperwork and represent you at closing can be invaluable. At Welford & Sawyer, PC, our real estate lawyers will ensure that your best interests are protected every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more.