Craig Daily Press

Craig — Questions and, sometimes, fear.

It’s what some residents possess when faced with trying to make sense of the numerous details surrounding Soc­­ial Security benefits, said Evel­yn Tile­ston, Inde­pen­dent Life Center executive director.

The questions include doubts about whether employment can nullify an individual’s Social Security benefits eligibility.

The fear: Losing those benefits, which, for some people, are the sole source of income and medical care, Tileston said.

She believes it’s a legitimate concern.

“I don’t blame them for being cautious,” she said.

However, residents — including those who receive disability benefits — “need to get more information before making a decision about going back to work,” Tileston added.

This week, the ILC is hosting two seminars to provide that information.

David Nelson, Western Colo­rado benefits planner, will guide the sessions and answer questions from the community.

The first session is scheduled for 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. today at the Independent Life Center, 438 Yampa Ave. The meeting is open to area professionals who serve residents on Social Security benefits.

A public forum, open to all residents, is slated for 10 a.m. to noon Thursday at the ILC.

Nelson received three years of training from the Social Security administration, Tile­ston said.

For at least six years, the ILC has invited Nelson to speak to Moffat County residents about Social Security benefits.

He’s left an impression.

“He’s the smartest guy on Social Security I’ve ever met,” Tileston said.

Nelson is qualified to answer various questions, including helping residents obtain the Social Security benefits they need to determine why their benefits application was turned down, Tileston said.

Nelson was unavailable for comment.

The question that weighs heavily on some residents’ mind, especially those with disabilities, is whether they can keep their benefits if they have a job.

Some people who receive Social Security disability benefits choose not to work, believing that doing so will make them ineligible, Tileston said.

This, however, is not the case.

The U.S. Social Security Administration provides incentives, including assistance training and rehabilitation, for disability benefits recipients who desire to return to work, the agency’s Web site reported.

“Special rules make it possible for people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income to work and still receive monthly payments,” until the person’s income is deemed substantial, according to the Administration.

Individuals who wish to discuss their Social Security benefits privately with Nelson can sign up for meetings between 1 and 5 p.m. today and Thursday.

Residents interested in a private appointment still should call the ILC at 826-0833 or visiting the office.