Frequently Asked Questions

 1.  Why do I need an advocate?

Studies show that claimants who have appointed a representative are up to three times more likely to be approved and awarded disability benefits.

2.  What are social security disability benefits?

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program pays benefits to you and certain family members if you are insured, meaning that you worked long enough, and recently enough,  and paid Social Security taxes on your earnings. The Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources.

While the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are different, the medical requirements are the same. If you meet the non-medical requirement criteria, monthly benefits are paid if you have a medical condition that’s expected to last at least one year or result in death.

3.  What is the disability application process?

• We complete and submit the application for you. .

• SSA reviews your application to make sure you meet some basic requirements.  

• SSA may evaluate any current work activities.

• The case is forwarded to the Disability Determination Services office in your state.

• This state agency completes the disability determination decision for SSA,

4.  How to appeal a determination?

If you have been denied, we will file an appeal for you.  This must be done within 60 days of your denial. Although SSA may allow you to file an appeal after the 60-day guideline in some circumstances.  There are four types of appeal: 

• Reconsideration.

• A hearing before an administrative law judge.

• A review by Social Security’s Appeals Council.

• A review by the federal courts.

5.  What information do I need to provide?

We collect information about you, your medical condition, and your work. This information helps us maximize your chances for being approved. 

 Information About You

• Your date and place of birth and Social Security number.

• Information About Your Medical Condition

• Name, address, and phone number of someone we can contact who knows about your medical conditions and can help with your application.

• Detailed information about your medical illnesses, injuries, or conditions:

  • Names, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of treatment for all doctors, hospitals, and clinics.

  • Names of medicines you are taking and who prescribed them.

  • Names and dates of medical tests you have had and who sent you for them.

Information About Your Work:

• The amount of money earned last year and this year.

• The name and address of your employer(s) for this year and last year.

• A list of the jobs that you had in the 15 years before you became unable to work and the dates you worked at those jobs.

6.  What other documents could SSA ask for?

• SSA may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as:

  • Birth certificate or other proof of birth.

  • Proof of citizenship or alien status if you were not born in the United States..

  • W-2 forms(s) and/or self-employment tax returns for last year.

  • Medical evidence already in your possession. This includes medical records, doctors' reports, and recent test results.