Social Security Disability Survey Statistics: What We Learned From Our Readers

Applying for Social Security disability (SSDI and SSI) can be daunting and often discouraging. If you’re considering filing a claim for SSDI or SSI—or your initial application has already been denied—it may help to learn from the experiences of other people who went through the process. Martindale-Nolo Research conducted a survey in 2017 of readers who had filed a Social Security disability claim and had researched hiring a lawyer. We’ve analyzed the survey statistics and presented the results how different factors affected the outcome of their claims, including:

  • the role (and cost) of lawyers and nonlawyer advocates
  • which applicants are more likely to win benefits, and
  • what you can do to improve your chances.
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