Your Questions Answered

SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. It's based on your work history and disability. If approved, Medicare usually starts after 24 months. SSI is needs-based. It's for people with very low income and few resources, regardless of work history. It often comes with Medicaid (rules vary by state).

No. You don't pay us upfront. If we win, the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves and pays our fee out of your past-due benefits. If we don't win, you don't owe a fee. (You might have small costs like medical record copy fees.)

It varies. The first decision can take several months. If you appeal, it can take longer, and some cases take a year or more to reach a hearing. We keep your case moving and update you at each step.

Usually, yes — most people are denied at first. You generally have 60 days from the day you receive the notice (Social Security assumes you received it 5 days after the date on the letter). If you are past that, call us anyway; late appeals are sometimes allowed for good cause. We review why you were denied, help gather the evidence that was missing, and handle the appeal.

Many appeals go to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). There's no jury. The judge will ask questions, and a vocational expert may testify. Hearings can be by phone, video, or in person. We prepare you so you know what to expect.

Doctor's treatment notes and test results (labs, imaging). A clear statement from your doctor about your limits (how long you can sit, stand, lift, focus, etc.). A complete medication list and any side effects. Consistent records over time showing your condition and how it limits your ability to work.

Yes — if they are severe enough to keep you from working above Social Security's earnings limit for at least 12 months. Conditions can include depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism, and others. Treatment records and doctor opinions are important.