Questions About Social Security Disability and SSI Benefits
If you're trying to win disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, you likely have some questions about how the process works, who is eligible for disability payments, how to appeal a denied claim, and more. This page covers the most common questions and will help you understand how to win your disability claim as quickly as possible.
Legal Help with Your SSDI or SSI Disability Claim
If you have questions about your disability claim and are not sure where to start, use the link below to have your case evaluated by an attorney that specializes in filing and winning Social Security disability claims.
Talk to a Disability Lawyer
Use this form to quickly connect with local disability advocates who are ready to help you win your case.
Use this form to quickly connect with local disability advocates who are ready to help you win your case.
Social Security Disability Questions & Answers
Get informed about the Social Security disability process. Find out how to better your chances of a successful disability case.
To be considered disabled by the SSA, a person must have an impairment, either medical, psychological, or psychiatric in nature, that meets the definition of disability.
Both SSI and SSDI disability programs offer cash benefits for disabled individuals, the financial eligibility requirements are very different.
Claims examiners at the state disability determination agency decide whether you are medically eligible for Social Security disability or SSI.
Social Security disability cases can take a long time to complete. It's wise to apply as early as possible to get benefits faster.
To apply for Social Security Disability benefits, or SSI benefits based on disability, contact your local Social Security Office and state that you wish to file an application.
In many parts of the country, the Social Security initial application and appeals process has gotten longer due to a steep rise in disability claims.
Each state has an agency that decides disability claims for Social Security.
For a Social Security disability case, medical evidence takes many forms, including physician treatment notes, mental health records, bloodwork panels, and imaging results.
There are few sources of assistance for those seeking Social Security Disability benefits.
There are conditions for which disability is automatically approved if you fulfill the listed requirements.
The field rep checks your basic non-medical eligibility and forwards your case to DDS.
In some cases, if your last job was part time, you'll be denied disability if you can't work full time but you can work part time.
A car accident disability is something you can get Social Security or SSI benefits for if it lasts over a year.
Find even more information and answers to common Social Security Disability questions.
Questions on Appeals and Denials
If you are denied on your Social Security Disability or SSI benefit claim, you should request an appeal immediately, within the 60-day deadline.
It depends on the type of claim, the condition of your medical records, and the workload of your claims examiner.
Generally, the rule is this: If you are denied on your initial claim for disability benefits, you will probably be denied on your first appeal as well.
Being found totally and permanently disabled by workers' comp doesn't necessarily translate to disability for Social Security or SSI.
Do-It-Yourself Help from Nolo
Trying to win benefits but don't want to hire a professional? Use Nolo's award winning legal books to become an expert.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability
Written by a former SSA medical consultant, Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability is the essential book for anyone dealing with a long-term or permanent disability.
Written by a former SSA medical consultant, Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability is the essential book for anyone dealing with a long-term or permanent disability.
Editorial Information
This site and the information provided within is edited and managed by Bethany Laurence, J.D.