Social Security FAQs

According to the Social Security Administration, an individual is disabled if they are cannot do work that they did before; they cannot adjust to other work because of their medical condition(s); and their disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death. To determine whether or not you meet these requirements, the SSA uses a five-step process. This process takes into account details such as work history, condition, age, education and skill level.

There are two separate programs that the Social Security Administration provides benefits under — Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI). Funds for these programs are garnered from two different sources: Disability is an insurance program and is provided through workers’ payroll taxes, while general tax revenues fund SSI.

How much Social Security you pay into the system determines how much you receive in SSDI benefits. Because of budget concerns, the SSA no longer sends individuals summaries of their benefits. You can request this statement by mail or request to view it online at www.ssa.gov. SSI benefits are determined by attributes such as your living arrangements, state of residency and by your income.

Our office works on a contingent basis, meaning we do not receive financial compensation unless your claim is successfully filed. Those fees are determined on the back-due benefits amounts the individual receives based on the amount that would be owed if the court had made a correct decision from the start. The SSA puts a cap of 25 percent or $6,000 on this amount. Additionally, the SSA must approve all of our fees, protecting both us and the individual.

Once a person is deemed eligible for SSDI, there is a two-and-a-half-year waiting period for Medicare. If you are collecting SSI you are automatically eligible for Medicaid as soon as you begin collecting benefits.

Oftentimes, Social Security applications are initially denied because of errors or improper documentation in the application process. Our team of legal experts can help you navigate the application process and appeal your claim.