To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least one year or is expected to result in death. Social Security considers your age, work history, education, and transferable skills in determining your eligibility. In addition, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to have sufficient “work credits” for SSDI, or meet strict financial need requirements for SSI. If you believe you may qualify, contact our office for a free evaluation so we can determine the best strategy for your claim.
On average, it takes 4–6 months for Social Security to decide on an initial claim, but timelines vary. In 2024, the average processing time has stretched to 6–8 months due to backlogs. Delays often happen because of slow medical record collection, requests for additional evidence, or the complexity of your condition. Working with an experienced representative can speed up the process by ensuring all necessary documentation is submitted correctly the first time.
If your case is denied, you must file an appeal within 60 days of the decision. The appeals process allows you to submit new evidence and arguments to strengthen your case. It’s important not to give up—a majority of claims are denied initially, but many are later approved on appeal. Representation at this stage significantly increases your chances of success because an experienced advocate knows how to address the reasons for denial and present your claim in the strongest light.
Yes. Social Security offers special programs such as a “trial work period” that allow you to test your ability to return to work without immediately losing your benefits. You may work for up to nine months in a rolling 60-month period to see if you can sustain employment. If you are unable to continue, your benefits continue without interruption. Our team can guide you through these programs to ensure you don’t risk your benefits unnecessarily.
During your hearing, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will review your medical records, listen to your testimony, and hear from expert witnesses such as vocational or medical experts. Hearings usually last 30–60 minutes and are less formal than court trials. The judge may ask about your symptoms, daily limitations, and ability to work. Having a representative ensures that your case is properly presented, all evidence is included, and experts are cross-examined effectively to protect your rights.
With over 20 years of experience, our team has successfully represented thousands of clients in SSDI and SSI claims. We know how to navigate the complex system, gather the right evidence, and build a compelling case. From filing applications to representing you at hearings, we stand by your side at every step. Our mission is to maximize your benefits and make the process less stressful for you and your family.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history and Social Security contributions, while SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is need-based and depends on your financial resources. Both programs require that you meet Social Security’s definition of disability, but eligibility criteria differ. Some people qualify for both programs at the same time. We can help you determine which program(s) you may be eligible for.
You are not required to have representation, but statistics show that applicants with professional help are far more likely to be approved. A representative ensures that your application is complete, your evidence is strong, and your case is presented properly during hearings. Without representation, many applicants are denied simply because they did not provide enough documentation or didn’t understand Social Security’s strict requirements.
Social Security maintains a “Listing of Impairments” that covers conditions like cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, respiratory disorders, and mental health conditions. However, you don’t need to meet a listing exactly. If your condition prevents you from working, you may still qualify based on your functional limitations. We help identify how your condition fits within Social Security’s guidelines.
The benefit amount depends on your work history (for SSDI) or your financial situation (for SSI). SSDI benefits are based on your average lifetime earnings covered under Social Security. SSI benefits are set at federal and state levels and may vary depending on your income, assets, and living arrangements. We can help you estimate your monthly benefit amount during your free consultation.
Yes. Children under 18 may qualify for SSI if they have a physical or mental condition that results in “marked and severe functional limitations.” Household income must also be within certain limits. At age 18, the child’s case is reviewed under adult standards. We work closely with families to file children’s claims and prepare for age-18 redeterminations.
At age 18, Social Security re-evaluates your case under adult disability rules, which focus on work ability. Many young adults lose benefits at this stage if they’re not properly prepared. Our team ensures your records and medical evidence clearly demonstrate ongoing disability so your benefits continue seamlessly.
Social Security requires objective medical evidence from licensed professionals. This includes test results, clinical notes, imaging scans, lab reports, and detailed medical records. Personal statements are helpful but not enough on their own. We work directly with your doctors and specialists to gather complete, persuasive evidence that supports your claim.
SGA is the threshold Social Security uses to decide if your work activity is too significant to qualify as disabled. In 2024, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (or $2,590 if you are blind), Social Security generally considers that you are engaging in SGA. If your earnings are below these limits, or if your condition prevents consistent work, you may still qualify.
Claims are often denied because of insufficient medical evidence, incomplete applications, missed deadlines, or because Social Security believes you can perform other work. Many people are also denied for continuing to earn above SGA levels while applying. The good news is that most denials can be appealed, and with the right evidence and representation, your chances of approval improve dramatically.
If you are approved for disability and later reach retirement age, your disability benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits. You cannot collect both at the same time. However, your monthly payment amount typically remains the same.
The appeals process involves several stages: reconsideration, hearing before an ALJ, review by the Appeals Council, and finally federal court review if necessary. Each stage requires additional evidence and arguments. Many claims are won at the hearing level, where an experienced representative can make the most impact. We guide you through every step to give your case the best chance.
No. SSI does not require work credits because it is a need-based program. Eligibility depends on your income and resources. SSDI, on the other hand, requires that you have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. Some applicants may qualify for both programs.
SSI benefits can impact eligibility for certain state or federal assistance programs, while SSDI benefits generally do not. In some cases, receiving disability benefits may qualify you for additional programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, or state supplements. We help you understand how your benefits may interact with other programs so you don’t lose support unexpectedly.
From the moment you contact us, we handle every step of your case. We prepare and file your application, gather medical and supporting evidence, communicate with Social Security on your behalf, and represent you at hearings or appeals. With over 20 years of experience and a proven track record, our mission is simple: to fight for your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.