Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Social Security Disability in 2025

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Social Security Disability in 2025

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  Applying for Social Security Disability benefits in 2025 involves a structured process designed to help individuals who cannot work due to a severe medical condition. While the application can be complex, understanding the steps involved can help applicants navigate the system efficiently and improve their chances of approval. This article provides […]

How Trusts Can Shield Your Wealth in New York State (NYS)

How Trusts Can Shield Your Wealth in New York State (NYS)

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. Trusts have long been regarded as essential tools for wealth management and protection. In New York State (NYS), where state laws impose high tax rates and extensive estate and inheritance planning requirements, trusts offer unique opportunities to safeguard assets, minimize taxes, and ensure financial security. This article explores how trusts work, […]

Can Congress Ban a Speech Platform to Prevent Chinese Government Manipulation? A Free Speech Analysis

Can Congress Ban a Speech Platform to Prevent Chinese Government Manipulation? A Free Speech Analysis

By Esther Claudette Gittens | Editorial credit: Rokas Tenys / Shutterstock.com The rise of platforms like TikTok and their alleged manipulation by the Chinese government has sparked fierce debate in the United States. Some argue that such platforms pose a national security threat due to potential propaganda, surveillance, and data harvesting. Others counter that banning […]

Top 10 Reasons Why Black and Native Americans Should Critically Evaluate Joining the Seventh-day Adventist Church

Top 10 Reasons Why Black and Native Americans Should Critically Evaluate Joining the Seventh-day Adventist Church

By Esther Claudette Gittens | Editorial credit: JC Fotografia / Shutterstock.com The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, founded in the mid-19th century, has grown into a global denomination known for its emphasis on the Sabbath, health practices, and eschatology. However, its historical relationship with Black and Native American communities is fraught with contradictions, discrimination, and cultural […]

Top 10 Reasons Why Blacks and Native Americans Have Historically Criticized the Catholic Church

Top 10 Reasons Why Blacks and Native Americans Have Historically Criticized the Catholic Church

By Esther Claudette Gittens | Editorial credit: KARITING PICAH / Shutterstock.com The Catholic Church has played a significant role in global history, including during colonial and imperialist expansions that profoundly affected Black and Native American communities. Some critics argue that certain aspects of the Church’s historical actions and doctrines may be reasons why these groups […]

Top 10 Reasons Why Blacks and Native Americans Have Historically Criticized the Anglican Church

Top 10 Reasons Why Blacks and Native Americans Have Historically Criticized the Anglican Church

By Esther Claudette Gittens The Anglican Church, known as the Church of England and its affiliated global entities, has played a significant role in shaping colonial and imperial history. Its legacy is intertwined with systems of oppression and assimilation that have disproportionately impacted Black and Native American communities. Below, we explore ten key historical points […]

Top 8 Reasons Why Marginalized Communities Should Consider Boycotting Elon Musk’s Products and Services

Top 8 Reasons Why Marginalized Communities Should Consider Boycotting Elon Musk’s Products and Services

By Esther Claudette Gittens | Editorial credit: Anna Moneymaker / Shutterstock.com Elon Musk, the CEO of companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and the owner of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), has been a polarizing figure in recent years. His statements and actions have raised concerns among marginalized communities, including Black individuals, women, and LGBTQ+ […]

Attorney General James Secures $725,000 from Equifax for Harming Consumers Through Inaccurate Credit Scores

Attorney General James Secures $725,000 from Equifax for Harming Consumers Through Inaccurate Credit Scores

Editorial credit: Ben Von Klemperer / Shutterstock.com Equifax Reported Incorrect Credit Scores to Lenders, Inflating Costs for New Yorkers   NEW YORK — New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a settlement with Equifax Information Services, LLC (Equifax) for inaccurately reporting tens of thousands of New Yorkers’ credit scores to lenders, inflating costs for loans and […]

How to Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for Filing a Tax Return: Process and Immigration Considerations

How to Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for Filing a Tax Return: Process and Immigration Considerations

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  For individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) but need to file a U.S. tax return, obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), specifically an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), is essential. This process is particularly significant for non-residents, immigrants, and undocumented individuals, but it raises important questions […]