Gina M. Lupachini, JD, EDPNA Accredited Disability Representative

12/25/2025

Season's greetings from GM Disability Services. Wishing you a wonderful day.

12/12/2025

📣 **Important Update for Our GMDS Community!**

Thanks to the Social Security Administration’s announcement, **benefits will increase by **2.8%** in 2026**, starting with SSI payments on December 31, 2025, and Social Security retirement, disability, and survivor benefits in January 2026

Here’s what that means:

- 💰 The **average retired worker** will see a raise of approximately **$56/month**—from around $2,015 to $2,071
- 🧩 This boost applies not only to retirement benefits but also to **Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)** and **Supplemental Security Income (SSI)**—a win for many of our GMDS clients!

**Why this matters for you**
At GMDS, we’re here to support you every step of the way. This adjustment reflects the rising cost of living and helps ensure that benefits keep pace with inflation. If you’re receiving Social Security or SSI, this bump is automatic—no action needed on your end. We’ll help you understand how this increase impacts your monthly net benefit after Medicare premiums.

📅 **Stay tuned for your COLA notice**—usually mailed or available online in December, with your updated payment applied in January.

2026 SOCIAL SECURITY CHANGES Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): Based on the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) from the third quarter of 2024 through …

12/06/2025

12/01/2025

Tomorrow is giving Tuesday.. Your small donation matters. Help JCM meet their goal of $3500

This Giving Tuesday, Join Us in Lighting the Way for Brighter Futures! At JCM Brilliant Minds Foundation, we believe every child, no matter their background or challenges, deserves the opportunity to thrive, grow, and experience the joy of a transformed life. Through o...

10/30/2025

Due to the ongoing government shutdown, SNAP benefits (different than CCAP, WIC, Medicaid, Early Intervetion and TANF) will not be issued for November. If you or someone you love relies on this program, please know you are not alone—and there are resources available to help.

As of November 1, the USDA has confirmed that no SNAP benefits will be distributed due to a lapse in federal funding. This affects over 42 million Americans, including families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities who depend on these benefits to put food on the table.

I understand how frightening and frustrating this is. While this situation is beyond our control, there are still ways to access food assistance:
🥫 Local Food Banks & Pantries
Visit FeedingAmerica.org to find a food bank near you. Many are expanding services in response to the shutdown.
🚗 DoorDash Emergency Food Response
DoorDash is waiving delivery fees for one grocery order in November for SNAP recipients. Use promo code SNAPDD at checkout. They’re also partnering with food banks to deliver meals nationwide.
🛒 Gopuff Grocery Credits
Gopuff is offering $50 in free SNAP-eligible groceries—two $25 credits, one for Nov. 1–15 and another for Nov. 16–30. These are available while supplies last.
📞 Call 211
Dial 211 to connect with local food programs, Meals on Wheels, and emergency assistance in your area. They are 24 hours.
🧾 Use Remaining SNAP Funds
If you have any balance left on your EBT card from October, it will remain usable in November. Plan purchases carefully to stretch those dollars.

This is a deeply unsettling time, but community support is strong. Please share this post to help spread the word—and if you know of additional resources, drop them in the comments.

We’re in this together. 💛

10/24/2025

📈 2026 SSA Updates: What You Need to Know

Starting January 2026, the Social Security Administration is adjusting key thresholds that impact disability benefits:

🔹 Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for non-blind individuals will increase from $1,620/month to $1,690/month

🔹 Trial Work Period (TWP) threshold rises from $1,160/month to $1,210/month

🔹 SSI Federal Payment Standard will increase to $994/month for individuals and $1,491/month for couples

🔹 SSI Resource Limits remain unchanged

At GM Disability Services, we stay ahead of these changes so you don’t have to. Whether you're navigating eligibility, work incentives, or monthly payments—we’re here to guide you with clarity and care.
📞 Call us at 877-78CANTWORK

🟡 Look for the gold GM circle—your symbol of trusted advocac

Send a message to learn more

10/24/2025

📢 2026 SSA COLA Announced: What It Means for You

The Social Security Administration has officially announced a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) effective January 2026. This increase—based on updated inflation data—will impact monthly benefits for millions of Americans receiving Social Security and SSI.
At GM Disability Services, we know this news raises questions. What does this mean for your benefits? How will it affect your case or eligibility? That’s where we come in.

💬 We’re here to break it down clearly, accurately, and with your best interests at heart.

📞 Questions? Call us at 877-78CANTWORK.

🟡 And as always, look for the gold GM circle—your symbol of trusted advocacy

Send a message to learn more

10/22/2025

🌟 We want to hear from YOU! 🌟

At GM Disability Services, we’re always looking for ways to better serve our community. What questions do you have about Social Security Disability? Are there topics you’d love to see us cover in future posts?

💬 Drop your ideas in the comments! Whether it’s navigating the application process, understanding eligibility, or tips for medical documentation—we’re here to help.

📝 And while you're here, check out our latest blog post at www.gmdisabilityservices.com—we’re diving into important updates and insights that could make a real difference.

Let’s make this page a resource you can count on. Your voice matters

Send a message to learn more

10/22/2025

🛑 Government Shutdown Update — What It Means for You 🛑
Even during the federal shutdown, Social Security benefits will continue without interruption. Payment dates remain the same, and many services are still available online.
💻 You can use your my Social Security account to:
✔️ Request a replacement SS or Medicare card
✔️ Access benefit verification letters
✔️ Apply for benefits
✔️ Check your application or appeal status
✔️ View your COLA notice early (if enrolled by Nov 20)
✔️ Update your address or direct deposit
✔️ Print your 1099
✔️ Review your earnings history
📲 If you don’t have an account yet, now’s the time to go digital. It’s fast, secure, and gives you more control.

Send a message to learn more