Question 1

What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Accepted Answer

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on work history and work credits. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is needs-based and depends on income and assets. Some people may qualify for one or both programs.

Question 2

Do I qualify for SSDI if I haven’t worked recently?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. SSDI eligibility depends on having enough work credits and meeting Social Security’s recent work requirements. We can review your work history to see whether you may still qualify.

Question 3

How do work credits work for SSDI?

Accepted Answer

Work credits are earned through paying Social Security taxes while working. The number of credits needed varies by age when you became disabled. Eligibility depends on both total credits and how recently they were earned.

Question 4

Can I apply for SSDI and SSI at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many applicants file for SSDI and SSI together when appropriate. Social Security will evaluate eligibility for each program based on work history, income, and assets.

Question 5

How long does it take to get a decision on disability?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary by state and case complexity. Initial decisions often take several months. If appeals are needed, the process can take longer, especially if an ALJ hearing is required.

Question 6

What happens if my disability claim is denied?

Accepted Answer

A denial does not mean the case is over. You may be able to appeal, but deadlines are strict. Many successful claims are approved at reconsideration or after an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing with stronger evidence and case development.

Question 7

How long do I have to appeal a denial?

Accepted Answer

Appeal deadlines are strict. In many cases, you must file an appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice. We recommend acting quickly to avoid missing your deadline.

Question 8

What is reconsideration in a disability appeal?

Accepted Answer

Reconsideration is the first appeal level after an initial denial. A different reviewer takes a new look at your claim, including any additional medical evidence submitted.

Question 9

What is an ALJ hearing for Social Security Disability?

Accepted Answer

An ALJ hearing is a formal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. You may provide testimony, and updated medical evidence is considered. Many claimants are approved at the hearing level when the case is well-prepared.

Question 10

Do I need an attorney for SSDI/SSI, or can a non-attorney representative help?

Accepted Answer

You are not required to have an attorney. Qualified non-attorney representatives can represent claimants before the Social Security Administration, including during appeals. The key is having experienced, organized case support.

Question 11

How much does disability representation cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees are contingency-based and regulated by Social Security. You pay only if you are awarded benefits, and the fee is typically paid from past-due benefits rather than out-of-pocket.

Question 12

What is Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) describes what you can still do despite your impairments. RFC is central to many disability decisions because it connects medical limitations to work-related abilities.

Question 13

What does Social Security mean by “Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)”?

Accepted Answer

SGA refers to a level of work activity and earnings Social Security considers significant. If you earn above SGA limits, it can affect eligibility. We review your work and income to help you understand how it impacts your claim.

Question 14

Can I work while applying for disability?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Some people can work while applying, but earnings generally must remain below SGA limits and the work must be consistent with claimed limitations. We evaluate your situation to reduce risk to your case.

Question 15

Can I get disability for depression or anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can qualify if symptoms and functional limitations prevent substantial work activity and are well documented through treatment records and clinical evidence.

Question 16

Can I get disability for back pain or degenerative disc disease?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Back pain and degenerative disc disease may qualify if medical findings and functional limitations prevent you from sustaining full-time work. Detailed records and RFC evidence are often important in these cases.

Question 17

What medical records are most important for a disability claim?

Accepted Answer

Social Security typically looks for consistent treatment records, diagnostic testing, provider notes, medication history, therapy records, hospitalizations, and documentation of functional limitations over time.

Question 18

What should I do if I don’t have a regular doctor?

Accepted Answer

You may still apply, but ongoing medical documentation is important. Options can include community clinics, specialists, mental health providers, and establishing consistent care to document symptoms and functional limitations.

Question 19

How do I prove I can’t work if my condition isn’t in the Blue Book?

Accepted Answer

Many claims are approved without meeting a specific Blue Book listing. Social Security can approve based on RFC and the combined impact of all impairments, showing you cannot sustain substantial work activity given your limitations.

Question 20

What is the SSA Blue Book (Listings of Impairments)?

Accepted Answer

The Blue Book is Social Security’s list of medical conditions and criteria that may qualify for disability. Not meeting a listing does not automatically mean denial, because claims can also be approved based on RFC and vocational factors.

Question 21

What is a disability onset date, and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The onset date is when Social Security determines your disability began. It can impact benefit amounts and back pay. Medical records, work history, and symptom timelines can all affect how onset is established.

Question 22

If I’m approved, when do benefits start and do I get back pay?

Accepted Answer

Many approved SSDI claims may include back pay based on the established onset date and other rules, and SSDI may involve a waiting period. SSI benefits may begin based on the application date and eligibility rules. The exact start date depends on your specific claim.

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