When to Contact an SSDI Attorney

The social security disability claims process can be confusing and downright aggravating. Our knowledgeable advocates and experienced SSDI attorneys can assist you at any stage of the process.

If you’re not sure whether or not you need a lawyer, the consultation is absolutely free. Even if your claim has been denied, you may still be eligible for benefits.

What’s the Difference Between SSI & SSDI?

SSDI (Social Security Disability) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) are actually two very different government programs. Despite both of these programs being managed and overseen by the Social Security Administration and determining medical eligibility in the same way, each program is completely separate. The major difference between SSI and SSDI is that SSDI is meant for workers who have built up enough work credits and SSI is for low-income people who don’t have enough work credits for SSDI or have never worked.

If you need help with your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Claim instead, please click here.

SSDI (Social Security Disability)

Payroll taxes are used to fund Social Security Disability benefits. Beneficiaries have worked enough years to contribute to the Social Security trust fund through FICA taxes. It is only available to individuals under 65 years of age who have earned over a specific number of work credits. Once on SSDI for at least two years, disabled individuals are eligible for Medicare. Disabled persons with SSDI benefits can pass auxiliary partial benefits on to their dependents over 18 years of age.

The Social Security Administration has a waiting period of five months for benefits after an individual becomes disabled where they cannot collect. Your benefit amount after the waiting period ends depends on how much you earned while working, just like Social Security retirement benefits.

SSDI approval rates are higher than those for SSI. This may be because SSDI applicants have a higher income and are more likely to have insurance to see a doctor for their medical issues than those applying for SSI. Another reason is claims examiners and judges give more credibility to applicants with a long work history, which is rare in SSI applicants.

Contact an SSDI Attorney

Bighorn Law offers one-on-one support and free consultations for social security benefits help. Please don’t wait. Call us today and ask to speak to an SSDI lawyer for assistance with your claim.