When Is Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
If you are unable to work due to one or more severe, lasting medical conditions and you are thinking about applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, call us for an appointment. Our experienced counsel will analyze your case and advise you of your potential eligibility. If you have already applied but your case was denied, we will examine all of your appeal options for reversing that denial and provide zealous representation as you seek benefits.
Initial consultations are free for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income initial application or appeal consultations. By Federal law, no Social Security Disability claims representative, attorney or otherwise, may charge a consult fee for initial application or appeals of denial.
Wondering Whether You Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance or SSI?
The medical disability criteria are the same for both programs: The individual must be unable to work due to one or more medical or mental health conditions, have been out of work for at least 12 months, or be expected to be out of work for at least 12 months.
The applicant for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) must have “insured status,” which generally refers to having paid Social Security taxes on earnings for at least 40 calendar quarters (there are special exceptions). If you lack “insured status”, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you meet certain financial need requirements. There are also other disability programs through Social Security, such as Widows benefits, children’s Supplemental Security Income benefits, and Disabled Adult Child Benefits, which may be available to you or a loved one through Social Security if certain specific criteria are met.
Full service representation through all Agency levels
We provide representation for:
- -initial Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income claims
-appeals of denial of benefits for people who have already filed for SSDI and/or SSI
-representation for certain other kinds of Social Security Disability related issues, such as cessations of benefits and overpayment notices (a retainer may be required in some circumstances in non-initial application or appeal of denial claims).
There is no fee for your SSI or SSDI initial application or appeal unless we win! For SSDI and SSI initial applications and appeals of denial of an initial application, if we feel we can provide you with representation, we are paid on a contingency basis subject to terms and conditions set forth in Federal law. Our Social Security Disability attorney will be happy to discuss how this works in more detail with you during your consultation if we believe we can provide you with representation.
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT WITH ALICIA A. HUTCHINSON, ESQ …… 732-382-6070
Social Security Disability Insurance and (SSI)
What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you paid while working. If you’ve worked enough years and become disabled, you may qualify. SSI is needs-based and is for people with little or no income and very limited assets, even if they’ve never worked. SSDI payments are usually higher; SSI payments are capped at a low monthly maximum.
How hard is it to get approved?
Most people are denied the first time they apply. Approval is based on strict federal rules, not just a doctor saying you’re disabled. Social Security looks at medical records, functional limitations, and whether you can work any job, not just the one you used to have. Appeals are common and often necessary.
How long does the process take?
An initial decision usually takes several months, but many cases take close to a year. If you are denied and appeal, the process can stretch to one to three years. The delays are due to backlogs, reviews, and hearings. If approved, back pay is often included.