Demystifying Social Security: Understanding Benefits, Appeals, and Working While Receiving Benefits

A National Social Security Day Community Education Event

National Social Security Day Website Banner

Friday, August 14, 2026
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Albany Public Library - Washington Branch (Community Watch Party & Resource Expo)
Facebook Live and LinkedIn Live
Free and Open to the Public

Register today

Social Security Benefits Don't Have to Be Confusing

Applying for Social Security benefits, appealing a denial, or thinking about returning to work can feel overwhelming. Many people are left wondering:

  • Can I qualify for SSI or SSDI?
  • What information does Social Security need?
  • How long does the process take?
  • What happens if my application is denied?
  • Can I work and keep my benefits?
  • Who can help me understand my options?

You deserve clear, understandable information.

Join Alliance for Positive Health for a free National Social Security Day event designed to provide practical guidance, answer common questions, and connect people with trusted resources. Whether you're applying for benefits, receiving benefits, helping a loved one, or supporting clients professionally, this event is for you.

Why This Event Matters

Navigating Social Security can be challenging, especially when you're managing health conditions, balancing financial needs, or considering returning to work.

For people living with HIV, questions about disability benefits, healthcare coverage, employment, and long-term financial stability often overlap. While this event is open to everyone, we recognize the unique experiences of people living with HIV and will highlight information and resources that may be especially relevant to this community.

Our goal is simple: To provide accurate information, reduce confusion, and help people make informed decisions about benefits and employment.

What You'll Learn

Living with HIV and Applying for Disability Benefits

Learn about the differences between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), what Social Security evaluates during the application process, and what applicants should know as they prepare to apply.

The Waiting Game: What to Expect After You Apply

The disability determination process can take time, and uncertainty can be stressful. We'll discuss:

  • What happens after an application is submitted
  • Typical stages in the review process
  • Requests for additional information
  • Possible decisions and next steps
  • Resources available while you wait

Understanding Appeals and Legal Support

A denial is not always the end of the process. Learn about:

  • Common reasons applications are denied
  • Appeal options
  • Legal representation
  • Advocacy and support resources
  • When seeking legal assistance may be helpful

Working While Receiving Benefits

Many people worry that returning to work will automatically cause them to lose benefits. This session will explore:

  • Work incentives
  • Employment supports
  • Reporting requirements
  • Healthcare considerations
  • The role of Benefits Counseling in helping people make informed choices about work

Meet Our Panel

Social Security Administration logo

Kirsten Darrah and Ben Stump, Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration, Office of Outreach and Community Education

Kirsten and Ben will provide information about disability benefits, eligibility considerations, and the application process.

The Family Center

Lauren Groetch, Esq., Chief Program Officer, Legal Services at The Family Center

Lauren will discuss appeals, legal advocacy, and important considerations during the disability determination process.

Alliance for Positive Health

Jeremy Lundberg, Sr. Benefits Counselor at Alliance for Positive Health

Jeremy will discuss work incentives, returning to work, maintaining benefits, and how Benefits Counseling can support individuals in understanding their options.

Community Resource Expo

In addition to the panel discussion, attendees will have an opportunity to connect with local organizations and learn about services available throughout the community. Potential resource partners may include:

  • Department of Social Services
  • Department of Mental Health
  • Office for the Aging
  • Employment and Workforce Development Programs
  • Housing and Community Service Organizations
  • Health and Human Service Agencies
  • Legal and Advocacy Programs

The Resource Expo is designed to help attendees identify additional support that may benefit them beyond Social Security-related services.

Who Should Attend?

This event is open to:

  • People considering applying for SSI or SSDI
  • Current Social Security beneficiaries
  • Individuals interested in working while receiving benefits
  • People living with HIV
  • Family members and caregivers
  • Case managers
  • Social workers
  • Care coordinators
  • Healthcare providers
  • Community-based organizations
  • Anyone who wants to better understand Social Security benefits

Questions We Hear Most Often

Can I qualify for disability benefits if I am living with HIV?

Possibly. Social Security evaluates each application individually and considers medical evidence, treatment history, and how a person's health condition affects daily functioning and ability to work.

Living with HIV does not automatically qualify or disqualify someone from receiving disability benefits. The decision is based on individual circumstances and the information provided during the application process.

Our event will help attendees better understand what factors may be considered and what to expect when applying.

What's the difference between SSI and SSDI?

While both programs provide support for people with disabilities, they are different programs.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources.

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on a person's work history and work credits.

Some individuals may qualify for one program, while others may qualify for both.

Join our event to learn how these programs differ and which program may be relevant to your situation.

How long does it take to get a decision after I apply?

The disability application process can take time, and the length of the process varies from case to case.

Many applications require medical record reviews and additional documentation before a decision is made.

At our event, representatives from the Social Security Administration will discuss the application process, what happens after you apply, and what you can expect during different stages of review.

What happens if my application is denied?

A denial does not necessarily mean the process is over.

Many individuals continue through the appeals process, which may include additional reviews or hearings.

An attorney from The Family Center will discuss common reasons applications may be denied and explain the appeals process during our event.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for Social Security benefits?

Not everyone uses legal representation when applying for benefits.

However, some individuals choose to seek legal assistance, particularly if they are appealing a denial or have questions about the process.

Our panel will discuss situations where legal assistance may be helpful and what resources may be available.

Can I work and still receive Social Security benefits?

Many people receiving benefits have questions about employment.

In some situations, work may be possible while continuing to receive benefits, but the rules can be complex and depend on individual circumstances.

Work incentives and other employment supports may be available.

Our Benefits Counselor will explain common work-related concerns and discuss available supports during the event.

Will I automatically lose my benefits if I start working?

Not necessarily.

Many people are surprised to learn that Social Security offers programs and work incentives designed to encourage employment and help individuals explore work opportunities.

Because each situation is unique, it's important to understand how employment may affect benefits before making decisions.

The event will provide an overview of these topics and explain how Benefits Counseling can help people make informed choices.

What is Benefits Counseling?

Benefits Counseling helps individuals understand how employment may affect benefits such as:

  • SSI
  • SSDI
  • Medicare
  • Medicaid
  • Public assistance programs
  • Other benefits and supports

Benefits Counseling can help people make informed decisions about work, income, healthcare coverage, and financial stability.

Is this event only for people living with HIV?

No.

This event is open to anyone who wants to learn more about Social Security benefits, appeals, employment supports, and available community resources.

However, Alliance for Positive Health specializes in supporting people living with HIV, and some portions of the discussion will highlight considerations that may be particularly relevant to individuals living with HIV.

Can I attend if I am a case manager, social worker, healthcare provider, or community professional?

Absolutely.

Providers and professionals are encouraged to attend and learn more about Social Security benefits, appeals, work incentives, and resources that may support the individuals they serve.

The event is designed to be valuable for both community members and professionals.

Will there be an opportunity to ask questions?

Yes.

Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions during the event.

While panelists cannot provide individualized legal or benefits determinations, they will answer general questions about Social Security, benefits, appeals, employment, and available supports.

Still Have Questions?

You don't have to figure this out alone.

Join us on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 3:00 PM for Demystifying Social Security: Understanding Benefits, Appeals, and Working While Receiving Benefits and hear directly from experts from the Social Security Administration, The Family Center, and Alliance for Positive Health.

  • Free to Attend
  • Open to the Public
  • In Person and Online
  • Community Resource Expo Included

Register today and get the answers you've been looking for.

 

About Alliance for Positive Health

Alliance for Positive Health is committed to improving the health and well-being of people living with HIV and individuals impacted by chronic health conditions throughout New York State.

Our Benefits Counseling Program helps individuals understand how employment may affect benefits such as SSI, SSDI, healthcare coverage, and other public benefits so they can make informed decisions about their future.

Through education, counseling, advocacy, and support, we strive to help people achieve greater financial stability, independence, and quality of life.

 

Demystifying Social Security: Understanding Benefits, Appeals, and Working While Receiving Benefits

Get practical information from experts, connect with community resources, and learn more about Social Security benefits, appeals, employment, and available supports.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone.

Register today