Members Sean and Amy B. are intentionally saving for what’s important in their life. Keeping track of exactly where their money goes is important to the couple’s budgeting success and their ability to save up for their goals.

Sean and Amy first became interested in Canopy after driving by a billboard. They were in the middle of a frustrating experience with their previous financial institution and were intrigued by Canopy’s advertisement for its Kasasa Checking accounts.

With the Canopy branch on Francis Ave. in the vicinity of their northside home, they decided to check it out. Both of them appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at the branch.

“Every time I come in to the branch, I get a warm, friendly feeling. And, it isn’t just the coffee. The atmosphere just feels warm and welcome, ” Sean said.

At the end of their first month being members, Sean and Amy were pleasantly surprised with the dividends they earned and decided to save those extra funds for one of their goals.

Sean and Amy’s savings strategy? “A dime here and a nickel there, ” Amy said.

Using the envelope savings method, Sean and Amy set aside a chunk of change at the beginning of the month for each of their spending categories. If they end up spending less than the allotted amount, they take the extra cash and put it towards remodeling their home.

Five years ago, they found the perfect home in north Spokane in a “neat neighborhood”. They love that their neighbors are from a mix of generations.

“Mostly everybody knows each other, ” Sean said.

Now that they have their home, they are building up their savings for home improvement projects.

“Our home is over a hundred years old with floors and an unfinished attic that need some love. That means we need to take time to save up, ” Amy said.

When the couple isn’t saving up for their next goals, they keep busy with a variety of passions. Both write fiction and are creating stories for a book series and a podcast.

Sean and Amy’s focus on saving and intentional budgeting allows them to enjoy the things that matter to them.

Canopy Credit Union | Importance of Saving

When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, finding the right personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in your case. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one to represent you? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are five vital pieces of advice to help you find the optimal personal injury lawyer and ensure you get the restitution you deserve:

Experience Speaks Loudly: When it comes to personal injury cases, experience is key. Find a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law and has a proven track record. An experienced lawyer will know the ins and outs of the legal system, know how to negotiate with insurance companies, and be prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Reputation Counts: A lawyer’s reputation can speak loudly about their abilities and professionalism. Look for reviews and testimonials from past clients to get an idea of what it’s like to work with them. You can also examine online ratings and reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp to measure their reputation in the community.

Free Consultations Are Your Friend: Many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to potential clients. Make use of these opportunities to meet with different lawyers, discuss your case, and see if they’re the right fit for you. During the consultation, take note of how the lawyer communicates with you and whether they seem genuinely interested in helping you.

Fee Structures: Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, make sure you understand their fee structure. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. However, the percentage they take can vary, so be sure to clarify this upfront to avoid any surprises down the road.

Communication is Key: Effective communication is critical in any legal case. Make sure the lawyer you choose is responsive to your calls and emails, keeps you updated on the progress of your case, and takes the time to answer any questions you may have. You want a lawyer who will be there for you throughout the entire process and make you feel confident in their abilities.

By following these 5 tips, you can find the best personal injury lawyer to represent you and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t settle – your future is too important.

Being unable to work due to medical conditions can be very stressful, worrying about how to maintain your life and pay the bills, as well as medical costs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is there to ensure people do need to find themselves in those situations, but what conditions qualify for SSDI benefits? 

While there is no set and firm answers regarding what conditions are covered by social security disability or not, there are guides and a baseline definition that can act as a rule of thumb:

SSDI recognizes an illness or injury that prevents a person from working for at least a year or that will likely cause death. 

Social Security Disability & the Administration Blue Book

As mentioned, there is a guide the Social Security Administration uses and people can look through to know whether they qualify for SSDI benefits: The Social Security Blue Book. Officially known as the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security, it lists the medical impairments the SSA considers severe enough to prevent someone from working and lists the medical criteria for determining if a person can receive disability benefits.

You can find the Social Security Blue Book here:

Disability Evaluation Under Social Security

Medical Conditions that Qualify for Social Security Disability

If a condition is listed in the Blue Book, it automatically meets the definition set by the SSA and qualifies a person for social security disability insurance. Here are some of the impairments and conditions listed that automatically qualify someone:

1. Musculoskeletal System: Conditions that affect the bones and muscles, such as back injuries and other dysfunctions of the joints and bones.
2. Special Senses and Speech: Conditions affecting vision, hearing, and speech.
3. Respiratory Disorders: Such as asthma, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, and cystic fibrosis.
4. Cardiovascular System: Including chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, and recurrent arrhythmias.
5. Digestive System: Conditions like liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal hemorrhaging.
6. Genitourinary Disorders: Kidney diseases and other conditions related to the reproductive and urinary systems.
7. Hematological Disorders: Disorders of the blood, such as anemia, hemophilia, and bone marrow failures.
8. Skin Disorders: Eczema, burns, and other dermatological conditions.
9. Endocrine Disorders: Conditions related to hormone-producing glands, such as thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary gland disorders.
10. Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: For instance, Down syndrome.
11. Neurological: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy, among others.
12. Mental Disorders: Such as schizophrenia, autism, depression, anxiety, and intellectual disorders.
13. Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases).
14. Immune System Disorders: Including lupus, HIV/AIDS, and rheumatoid arthritis.
     

It’s important to remember that only being diagnosed doesn’t guarantee approval for disability benefits and that the SSA requires specific medical evidence, and documentation before benefits are approved. 

Secure Your Medical Benefits 

The application process for SSDI is complex, and many applications are denied the first time. When that happens, a person can pursue the appeals process, which many find success with, especially if legal representation has been secured.

Here at Marken Law Group, we understand how stressful getting your rightful SSI benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during such an uneasy time. We have represented hundreds of claimants in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and California to obtain what is rightfully theirs. We focus on your individual needs rather than treat all cases as the same, bringing our extensive experience to help guide you through. 

If you want to better ensure you get the SSDI benefits you’re owed, contact us below and work with social security attorneys who know how to navigate the system and fight for you. 

Marken Law

As a hiring manager, you have a challenging role. You have to find people who can technically handle the work, but who are also a fit for the culture of your company. It’s a tall order, one made easier with a staffing firm. Here are a few ways a firm can help you to hire:

Find more qualified people, faster.

With a staffing firm, you can find the people you need, quickly. You don’t have to screen hundreds of resumes or conduct countless interviews. You can simply access a few top-tier, qualified candidates to make your final hiring decision.

This is simply because a recruiter has a pipeline of talented candidates who are ready to hit the ground running. They’re not starting from scratch, like you, and instead can deliver both active and passive options, one of whom could be your next great hire.

Focus on other priorities.

While your staffing firm is sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates, you can focus your time and attention on other business priorities. You can therefore get more done in your day and won’t be left scrambling to hire. You’ll be more productive and less stressed, as a result.

Access the services you need.

Whether you need help hiring for a key management role or a team of contractors to finish a big project, a staffing firm can provide the people you need – in the way you need them. They can also offer access to temp-to-hire candidates, so you can try out new recruits before extending a full-time offer. This all combines to give you the flexible workforce you need, so you can operate at peak efficiency.

Get help with screening and testing.

When it comes to performing background checks, skills testing, personality testing and other assessments, it can require a lot of time and resources. Instead with a professional staffing firm, they can handle the work, ensuring you get the right-fit candidate who passes with flying colors.

Ready for help hiring?

At Provisional Recruiting, we’re a Spokane staffing firm with a robust network of candidates, a proven screening process, and the services you need to remain optimally staffed at all times with qualified professionals. If you’d like to find out more, contact us today.

Provisional

Small businesses benefit from the convenience that VoIP phone systems provide today. They improve operational communications as well as customer service. But in choosing a small business phone system, here are ten common mistakes to avoid. 

#1 Choosing Solely for the Price

When selecting the ideal phone system for your business, it’s crucial not to fixate solely on the monthly fee. Too often, business owners opt for the cheapest phone service, driven to simplify the decision-making process and keep costs low. 

However, this approach often results in a critical oversight. It prioritizes cost over quality and reliability. It’s essential to understand that affordable phone systems aren’t necessarily synonymous with the best fit for your business. 

Instead, focus on seeking cost-effective solutions that offer genuine value for money, ensuring that the chosen system meets your business’s needs without compromising essential features and reliability.

#2 Choosing a Home Provider Instead

One common misstep among small businesses is assuming that a home phone provider will adequately meet their network setup and bandwidth necessities. Using home phone systems for business can be tempting. But it often leads to critical deficiencies. 

These systems frequently lack features crucial for business operations. Opting for a professional business solution instead of consumer-grade providers can provide significant advantages. A dedicated business phone system accommodates your immediate needs and scales with your business. It offers vital features such as supporting twenty business lines, distinguishing itself from residential or home phone services in its capabilities and scalability.

#3 Underestimating the Amount of Data and Bandwidth the Business Uses

Selecting a business phone system necessitates thoroughly evaluating your business’s bandwidth requirements and data rate.

By assessing bandwidth usage and comprehending the impact on your network, you will have a clearer understanding of what you need in a business phone system. Furthermore, considering data consumption allows for tailored solutions that align with your business’s needs, guaranteeing reliable and uninterrupted communications essential for sustained operations and growth.

#4 Disregarding Security

Overlooking security when selecting a business phone system can pose substantial risks. Business communications often involve sensitive information that demands protection against potential data breaches and unauthorized access. A robust phone system should prioritize security measures such as encryption to safeguard your data and ensure secure communication channels.

By employing encrypted protocols, these systems guarantee the confidentiality of conversations. It fortifies data privacy and provides a secure environment for sensitive information. By elevating the risks of unauthorized access, business owners can ensure the integrity of their communications.

#5 Lack of Evaluating Reviews and Feedback from Past and Current Clients

Hidden expenses often extend beyond separately sold equipment. It also encompasses the costly inconveniences stemming from a faulty system. Assessing factors like guaranteed uptime and the presence of multiple data centers capable of supporting systems during server outages is essential. 

Additionally, scrutinizing customer reviews and feedback from present and past clients provides invaluable insights into user experiences, satisfaction levels, and the system’s overall reliability, enabling informed decisions and averting potential operational hiccups.

#6 Not Taking Business Growth into Consideration

Failing to account for business growth when selecting a phone system can lead to disruptions and unnecessary expenses. The critical factor here is scalability.

Opting for a system that cannot evolve alongside your company’s expansion poses significant risks. Scalability ensures seamless growth without operational interruptions or the burden of additional costs. A flexible VoIP system stands out as it adjusts dynamically to business development, expanding or contracting in line with evolving needs. Its adaptability eliminates the necessity for prolonged contracts tied to services that might become redundant, offering a growth-friendly solution that aligns precisely with your business’s evolution.

#7 Not Fully Assessing Business Needs

Thoroughly assessing your business’s communication needs is a fundamental step in selecting an ideal phone system. Every business has unique communication requisites based on size, industry, and workflow. Addressing your company’s requirements is pivotal in identifying the most suitable phone system.

Rushing into a decision without a comprehensive understanding of these needs constitutes a common mistake. Investing in a system packed with extensive features might prove redundant for a small business if those functionalities aren’t necessary. Therefore, aligning services precisely to your business’s needs ensures you’re spending only what is essential, emphasizing the importance of tailoring the phone system to cater to your business’s demands.

#8 Overlooking Level of Integration with Business Platforms

A VOIP phone system must seamlessly integrate with your essential business tools, including Customer Relationship Management (CRM), IT Service Management (ITSM), email management software, and other critical platforms. 

A provider’s inability to synchronize with these tools could disrupt workflow continuity and cause downtime. Therefore, knowing its integration capabilities to guarantee compatibility with your existing platforms is essential for maintaining a continuous workflow while improving communications.

#9 Overlooking Customer Experience

Adapting your business practices to align with the chosen phone system is pivotal for delivering an exceptional customer experience.

Understanding the type of phone system that best suits your needs entails considering the impact on customer interactions. Implementing features like automated attendants and welcoming messages enhances the caller experience, contributing to positive customer satisfaction.

Additionally, offering appropriate customer support and comprehensive training becomes imperative for addressing issues promptly. By focusing on customer-centric services and ensuring seamless communication channels, businesses can elevate user experiences, fostering a customer-centric approach for improved satisfaction and efficient operations.

#10 Not Evaluating the Contract in Case of Alternative Exits

Thoroughly review the service contract when selecting a phone system provider. By taking note of contractual terms, including exit clauses and termination policies, you can negotiate the contract and avoid unexpected costs or difficulties when transitioning between providers in the future.

Now that you know the common mistakes to avoid, you can learn how to transition to a VoIP phone system with our help below. 

F2F Telecommunications | Small Business Phone System

The First Moments: A Symphony of Safety

The aftermath of a rental car accident is a critical period where your actions set the tone for everything that follows. This Rental Car Accident Guide underscores the paramount importance of safety and composure:

• Assess and Assist: Check for injuries among all parties. Immediate health concerns trump all ensuing procedures.
• Emergency Services: If there’s any doubt about the well-being of those involved, calling 911 is not just advisable; it’s imperative.
• Vehicle Safety: If the situation allows, moving the vehicle to a safe spot can prevent further incidents. This action, however, should never compromise personal safety.

The Exchange: A Delicate Dance of Details

In the delicate aftermath, the exchange of information is a ballet of precision and discretion, as outlined in this Rental Car Accident Guide:

• Contact and Insurance Info: Exchange names, insurance details, and contact information with a steadfast rule of not discussing fault.
• Silent on Rental Status: Revealing the car’s rental status could complicate initial interactions. Keep this detail to yourself for now.
• Document Everything: From the positions of the vehicles to the smallest scratch, document meticulously. Your smartphone’s camera is your ally in this quest.

Learn how to manage safety protocols post-accident effectively with our step-by-step approach.

Scene Documentation: The Art of Evidence

Gathering evidence is akin to painting a picture for the insurance companies and possibly the court:

• Comprehensive Photography: Capture every angle, focusing on damages, license plates, and the overall scene.
• A Written Record: Note down the exact time, weather conditions, and any other relevant environmental details.
• Witness Wisdom: If witnesses are present, their contact information could be invaluable. Their perspective might offer clarity to the situation.

The Insurance Maze: Navigating the Coverage Jungle

Insurance coverage for rental cars is a complex tapestry with many threads. This Rental Car Accident Guide aims to simplify this complexity:

• Understanding Your Policy: It’s crucial to know whether your personal auto insurance extends to rental vehicles.
• Primary vs. Secondary Insurance: Grasping this distinction can significantly affect how claims are processed and who pays first.
• Credit Card Benefits: Many credit cards offer rental car coverage, but understanding the scope and limitations of this coverage is essential.

Legal Insights: When to Call in the Experts

There are scenarios where the guidance of a seasoned rental car accident attorney becomes indispensable:

• Navigating Claims: An attorney can help you navigate the claims process, ensuring that you are treated fairly by all parties.
• Dealing with Rental Companies: The fine print in rental agreements can be a minefield. Legal expertise can help you avoid potential pitfalls.
• Securing Fair Compensation: An attorney can be crucial in ensuring that any settlement is just and compensates you adequately for your losses.

Uncover the benefits and procedures of personal auto insurance policies through our detailed overview.

FAQs: Your Compass in the Aftermath

Immediate Steps:

• Prioritize safety and call for emergency services if needed.
• Exchange information but withhold opinions on fault or the car’s rental status.
• Document the scene thoroughly.

Insurance Navigation:

• Verify if your personal insurance covers rental accidents.
• Understand the difference between primary and secondary coverage.
• Check your credit card for potential rental car coverage.

Seeking Legal Help:

• Consider legal advice for navigating complex claims.
• Legal expertise can clarify rental agreement terms.
• An attorney can advocate for fair compensation.

Post-Accident Protocols: Beyond the Immediate Aftermath

Repair and Recovery: Navigating the Path Forward

After ensuring safety, exchanging information, and initiating the insurance process, your focus shifts to the repair and recovery phase. This involves:

• Rental Company Communication: Promptly inform the rental company of the accident, adhering to their procedures for such incidents.
• Insurance Follow-Up: Stay proactive in your communications with both your insurance and the rental company’s insurer. Documentation and persistence are key.
• Personal Recovery: If injuries were sustained, the journey to recovery might include medical appointments, physical therapy, and possibly time off work. Prioritize your health and well-being above all.

Gain insights into rental car coverage options by exploring our in-depth analysis.

Reflection and Learning: Turning Experience into Wisdom

Every rental car accident, while unfortunate, offers valuable lessons:

• Preparedness: Future rentals might prompt you to review insurance options more carefully, including considering additional coverage offered at the rental counter.
• Awareness: An increased awareness of driving habits and conditions can emerge from the experience, contributing to safer driving practices.

This Rental Car Accident Guide is designed to navigate you through the tumultuous aftermath of a rental car accident. From immediate actions to legal considerations and beyond, the guide serves as a comprehensive resource for managing the unexpected, ensuring you’re equipped to handle the situation with confidence and clarity. For more detailed information, visit our comprehensive guide on legal advice for rental car accidents .

Navigating the process to register a company in the USA can be a pivotal step for international entrepreneurs looking to expand their business horizons. The United States offers a dynamic and diverse marketplace, ideal for businesses aiming to grow and thrive on a global scale. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essentials of how to register company in USA, providing you with the knowledge and tools needed for successful business incorporation.

The Appeal of the US Market

The United States is renowned for its large, diverse, and affluent consumer base, making it an attractive destination for international business expansion. The ease of doing business, coupled with strong legal protections and a stable economic environment, adds to its allure. When you register company in USA, you’re not just opening a business; you’re gaining access to a world of opportunities.

Benefits of US Company Registration

• Access to a Vast Market: The US market is one of the largest in the world, offering a wide range of customer segments.
• Global Credibility: A US-registered business often holds greater credibility in the international market.
• Favorable Business Environment: The US offers a conducive environment for innovation, growth, and entrepreneurship.

Step-by-Step Process to Register Company in USA

Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Business Structure

The first step to register company in USA is to decide on the right business structure. The common types include:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Popular among small to medium-sized businesses for its flexibility and tax benefits.
• Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp): Ideal for larger businesses, offering benefits like unlimited growth potential through the sale of stocks.

Step 2: Select a State for Incorporation

Different states have varying regulations, tax structures, and benefits. Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada are often favored for their business-friendly laws.

Step 3: Register Your Business

• Name Your Business: Choose a unique name that complies with state-specific requirements.
• File Formation Documents: Submit the necessary documents, such as Articles of Incorporation for a corporation or Articles of Organization for an LLC.
• Appoint a Registered Agent: A registered agent is required to receive legal documents on behalf of the company.

Step 4: Obtain Necessary Identifications and Licenses

• Employer Identification Number (EIN): Obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
• Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on your business type and location, various licenses and permits may be required.

Navigating Legal and Financial Considerations

Legal Compliance

Ensure that your company adheres to federal, state, and local laws. This includes understanding tax obligations, employment laws, and industry-specific regulations.

Financial Management

Setting up a robust financial system is crucial. Consider opening a US bank account and setting up accounting and bookkeeping systems.

Expanding and Operating Your US Company

Building a Presence

• Establishing a Physical or Virtual Office: Decide whether to set up a physical office or operate virtually.
• Hiring Employees: Understand the legal requirements for hiring local or international staff.

Marketing and Growth Strategies

Develop a marketing plan that resonates with the US audience. Explore digital marketing, networking, and other strategies to grow your business.

Conclusion

To register company in USA is a significant milestone for any international entrepreneur. It opens the door to a market that offers immense potential for growth, innovation, and success. The process requires careful planning, adherence to legal requirements, and a strategic approach to market entry. With the right preparation and guidance, your journey to establish a US company can lead to rewarding opportunities and a strong presence in the global marketplace. Remember, the key to success lies in understanding the market, complying with legalities, and adapting to the dynamic business environment of the United States.

What is Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

Endoscopic CSF leak repair addresses the issue of cerebrospinal fluid leakage originating from a breach in the protective dura mater surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

A nasal endoscope is inserted inside to navigate the nasal passages to find the breach in the dura mater commonly found at the skull base.

Using small surgical tools, the identified breach in the dura mater is meticulously patched using an Alloderm graft and mucosal tissue from the nasal passages. 

Recovery and Postoperative Instructions

Following the surgical procedure, patients typically undergo a 1-2 night stay for rest and continuous monitoring. In rare instances, some may require the placement of a lumbar drain to prevent excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure within the spine.

Habits to Adopt for Optimal Healing

In the initial phase of recovery, patients are advised to adopt specific practices to facilitate healing and prevent undue pressure on the repaired dura mater:

Gentle Nasal Care:

• Refrain from forceful blowing or wiping of the nose.
• Avoid vigorous sniffing, promoting a gentle approach to nasal care.
• Address persistent or worsening nosebleeds by sitting up and applying oxymetazoline spray as directed.

Medication Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to prescribed medications until completion as part of the postoperative regimen.

First Week of Recovery

Nasal Moisturization:

• Maintain nasal moisture using saltwater spray 3-4 times daily (unless instructed otherwise) during the first week.
• Opt for rest while maintaining an upright posture during the day and sleep with the head slightly elevated for comfort.
• Expect mild bloody nasal drainage during the initial 24-72 hours post-surgery, which is considered normal.

First 30 Days of Postoperative Care

Activity Limitations:

• Refrain from lifting heavy objects, straining, or excessively bending over during the initial 30 days.
• Utilize stool softeners to ease bowel movements and prevent straining.

Nasal Irrigation Caution:

• Avoid forceful nasal irrigation techniques such as squeeze bottles or neti pots.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

In the postoperative period, promptly seek medical attention if experiencing the following:

• Persistent nasal bleeding or unceasing clear nasal discharge.
• Noticeable bruising or swelling around the eye region.
• Sustained fever exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

To learn more click the link below.

Dr. Amy Anstead | Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

Understanding Nasal CSF Leaks and Rhinorrhea: Exploring Cerebrospinal Fluid Dynamics

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is crucial in cushioning the brain and spinal cord within the protective dura mater. However, when a breach occurs in this barrier, CSF can seep into the sinus cavities, leading to what’s known as CSF rhinorrhea.

CSF Rhinorrhea: Differentiating Symptoms and Characteristics

Distinguishing CSF rhinorrhea from typical nasal discharge is vital. Unlike common runny noses, the nasal discharge resulting from CSF leaks is typically thin, clear, and often unilateral, emerging from only one nostril. Importantly, it doesn’t respond to standard cold or allergy medications, serving as a distinguishing factor.

Risk Implications and the Importance of Timely Intervention

In cases where the dural defect fails to self-heal, the potential for bacterial infections affecting the brain’s surrounding linings becomes a concern. This risk underscores the necessity for surgical correction, prescribed by healthcare professionals, to mitigate further complications.

Certainly! Let’s expand on the description of endoscopic CSF leak repair, integrating more main content keywords while following the provided instructions:

Unveiling Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

Endoscopic CSF leak repair is minimally invasive. It is a surgical solution administered under general anesthesia. At the Proliance Puget Sound Sinus Center, this procedure is meticulously executed, encompassing the following steps:

1. Precise Exploration with Nasal Endoscopy: The procedure involves inserting a nasal endoscope and navigating the nasal passages to pinpoint the dura mater breach. Often situated at the skull base, this breach is the conduit for CSF leakage into the nasal cavity.
2. Precise Repair with Advanced Techniques: The identified hole in the dura mater is skillfully patched using sophisticated methods. The repair involves the utilization of an Alloderm graft along with mucosal tissue from within the nasal passages. This meticulous approach aims to seal the breach, preventing further CSF leakage.

Its minimally invasive nature ensures several patient benefits. Post-operatively, individuals experience reduced discomfort with minimal postoperative pain. Moreover, the procedure boasts an aesthetic advantage, leaving no visible scarring.

Exploring Risks and Complications

Following endoscopic CSF leak repair, risks and complications remain notably minimal. Among these, the most frequently observed is meningitis, albeit with a remarkably low likelihood of occurrence, standing at a mere 0.03% post-procedure.

Additionally, other potential complications with comparatively lower risks include:

• Hydrocephalus: Signifying the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, this complication, though infrequent, remains a possible postoperative concern.
• Mucocele Formation: This condition entails mucus buildup within the paranasal sinuses and is considered a rare occurrence after the repair procedure.
• Intracranial Abscess: An unusual but potential complication characterized by swelling in the brain due to pus accumulation post-surgery.
• Pneumocephalus: Indicative of the presence of air within the intracranial space, this complication, while infrequent, remains part of the postoperative considerations.

To learn more about how to care for someone after undergoing endoscopic CSF leak repair, see the link below. 

Dr. Amy Anstead

Marken Law Group, PS, understands that people view marijuana differently, some as an alternative medicine used for pain, to aid nausea and potentially other benefits and others who view it as a drug to stay away from like other illicit drugs. We will leave the benefits/risks up to a person’s doctor to explain. We also are not advocating or condemning marijuana use. We are, however, explaining what it could mean for your Social Security Disability claim.

Marijuana is currently, at the time of this posting, legal in 9 states including Washington D.C. Despite this, marijuana is still ILLEGAL as far as the federal government is concerned.

The Social Security Administration is a federal entity, therefore they view marijuana as an illicit drug the likes of meth, cocaine, and so on. Most judges we go in front of, do NOT view marijuana as a healthy alternative to opioid medication. While there is MUCH debate on this topic and we are not here to discuss the debate, the Judges who will hear your case will not like your use of marijuana, even if taken specifically for pain. If your issues are primarily PHYSICAL, marijuana will not necessarily hurt your case. You do need to be prepared and have a thorough understanding of what the Judge WILL ask you at your hearing.

If you have a mental health diagnosis and take marijuana, it is a more difficult road. Our clients often take marijuana to help with social anxiety and depression. The problem is the medical community and the Judge’s, most likely, view marijuana as CONTRIBUTING to anxiety and depression. Indeed I have personally seen judges roll their eyes when a claimant is testifying to their marijuana use helping their anxiety. Whether it does or does not is not really important. The fact is, most Judges and medical experts testifying, will view marijuana use as a significant detriment to mental health and stability and it could prevent you from obtaining benefits.

Each case is specific and this should in no way be construed to be blanket statements concerning all judges and medical experts.

At Marken Law Group, PS, we can walk you through the hearing process and what to expect come examination from the Administrative Law Judge who is hearing your claim. Click the link below to learn more. 

Marken Law | Marijuana Use and Your Disability Claim

As the old saying goes, the only things you can’t avoid in life are death and taxes.

The better organized and prepared you are before your tax return is due, the better you’ll feel and the more likely you are to take advantage of strategies to reduce your taxes and increase your potential refund.

1. Double-check your withholding

The end of the year is a great time to review your current withholding allowance to decide if you want to change it. Just look at your paycheck and talk with the payroll department at work about adjusting your withholdings as necessary.

2. Max out your retirement account contributions

The deduction limit for 401(k) contributions for 2022 taxes is $20, 500, and that does not count employer contributions. If you’re over 50, you can contribute more with “catch-up” contributions totaling $6, 500 if permitted by your 401(k) plan.

For IRAs, the maximum amount of tax-deductible contributions for 2022 is $6, 000, or $7, 000 if you are over 50. However, the amount of money that you can deduct from your taxes depends on both your income and whether you have a work-provided retirement plan.

Talk to your plan administrator to learn more about your options.

3. Make your home more energy efficient 

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 tripled the amount of tax credits you can get for increasing your home’s energy efficiency. Installing a solar energy system, wind turbine or geothermal heat pump can now give you 26% of the cost back if completed before Jan. 1, 2023.

Tax credits for energy improvements aren’t limited to alternative energy. Simply installing new Energy Star-certified furnaces and boilers can reap tax credits too. Check the manufacturer’s tax certification statement, as not every Energy Star-certified product is eligible.

4. Track your charitable contributions

Most taxpayers can generally deduct charitable donations up to 50% of their taxable income. 

Before donating to anyone, make sure that your contribution will be tax deductible by searching the IRS’ tax-exempt organization database. All valid charities and non-profits will also have a tax identification number identifying them as tax-exempt.

5. Check your required minimum distributions from retirement accounts

US tax law requires that Americans start receiving distributions from their personal or work-provided retirement accounts when they reach a certain age. These distributions are mandatory for 401(k) plans, traditional IRAs, profit-sharing plans, and pensions. They’re not required for Roth IRAs while the owner is alive. While the administrator of your retirement plan is required to follow tax law for distributions, it’s up to you to make sure you’re getting the right amount. If you don’t meet the required amount, you’ll face the harshest IRS penalty around — 50% on the shortfall. 

6. Combine your medical expenses into one year

Medical expenses can be a significant deduction for many taxpayers, but the IRS only allows you to deduct expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. For that reason, it can be advantageous to group all of your major medical expenses into one year.

If you’re approaching the 7.5% threshold this year, consider making health-related purchases by the end of December. Get your teeth straightened, buy those new glasses, or schedule that elective surgery, and you’ll maximize your medical deductions.

Similarly, if you’re not approaching that threshold, hold off on any non-urgent health-related purchases until January, when they could be more advantageous for next year’s income taxes.

7. Strategize your business expenses

Deducting business expenses can save you considerable money on taxes if you’re self-employed or a freelancer. Consider prepaying for next year’s expenses before the end of the year to reduce your tax burden for next year. 

2022 is quickly fading into the rear-view mirror. It may be too late to implement some of these strategies for this year’s return, but being aware of steps you can take to minimize your tax burden will deliver value (and hopefully a lower tax bill or larger refund) every year.

Learn more with the link below.

Canopy CU | Tax Time