Social Security Income (SSDI & SSI) Lawyers

Attempting to receive Social Security benefits on your own is an uphill battle. Claims are denied frequently, and without the help of an experienced attorney, you may be left feeling completely hopeless. 

At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we’re dedicated to helping people like you get the Social Security benefits they deserve. These claims are complex, but working with an experienced Social Security attorney will help take the weight off your chest. 

Our team has years of experience helping clients receive compensation for their disabilities. We often work with veterans filing claims, helping them secure benefits from service-related injuries, which can take years without the help of an experienced lawyer. 

To learn more about our services and how our SSI and SSDI lawyers can help you get the benefits you deserve as soon as possible, call 1 (800) 320-HELP or contact us online.

Understanding Social Security Disability

Social Security benefits help disabled people receive ongoing compensation as a replacement for work that they can no longer partake in. Social Security benefits are paid for in taxes, meaning that you’ve likely paid into this program in the past. 

Benefits are awarded for disabilities in the following bodily categories: 

• Musculoskeletal system, such as amputations, chronic joint pain, spinal disorders
• Special senses and speech, such as hearing or sight impairment 
• Respiratory illnesses, such as asthma or COPD
• Cardiovascular illnesses, including arrhythmia, heart failure, congenital heart disease
• Digestive system, including bowel or liver diseases
• Chronic kidney disease
• Blood disorders, such as anemia, hemophilia, or sickle cell disease
• Skin disorders, such as burns or dermatitis
• Endocrine disorders, most commonly diabetes, and thyroid problems 
• Congenital disorders, such as Down syndrome and other disorders that affect multiple systems 
• Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injuries, MS, ALS, or epilepsy
• Cognitive and mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, dementia, depression, schizophrenia, ADHD, and more
• Cancer
• Immune system diseases, such as HIV, arthritis, or lupus 

Let’s take a look at the difference between the two Social Security benefits programs and what they offer.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides benefits for people who have received enough work credits. Work credits are accumulated by paying Medicare and Social Security taxes. 

You’re likely eligible for these benefits if you’ve worked five out of the last ten years. This benefits program pays out compensation based on your past earnings, therefore the amount you receive will depend on your work history. 

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Social Security Income (SSI) doesn’t rely on a work credit system, as it’s intended for people with less work history or who haven’t paid as much into the Social Security system. 

With SSI, the amount of compensation you receive is not dependent on the amount of money you made in the past. Instead, it’s based on your financial assets, household income, and any other benefits or income you receive. 

What is the Difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSI and SSDI are fairly similar programs. Both help people who need financial assistance because of a disability. Both programs use the same rubric to determine one’s disability, and both require overwhelming and stressful applications. 

However, they differ when it comes to funding, requirements, and eligibility. 

• SSDI benefits are paid for by taxpayers, while SSI benefits are funded by federal tax revenue. 
• SSI benefits are needs-based, so your income and assets will be taken into account as a part of your application. SSDI benefits are provided based on your past earnings. 
• To be eligible for SSDI, you must have a certain number of work credits. To be eligible for SSI, you need to be able to showcase your need. 

Why Choose Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia for Your SSDI/SSI Claims

Our team of experienced Social Security lawyers has years of experience processing Social Security benefits applications, therefore we know just how stressful the process can be. We are committed to helping our clients get the outcome they deserve and will work passionately to make it happen.

We often work with veterans, helping them get benefits from service-related injuries when they are facing denials from the VA. Additionally, our team has experience pushing to get an application approved, appealing claim denials, and maximizing benefits for our clients. 

But don’t take it from us. Here are what some of our clients have to say about working with our SSI and SSDI lawyers: 

• “Excellent organization! I was lost with navigating the VA disability system and turned to them for help. Exceeded my expectations in every way. If you are a veteran looking for help with the VA, these are your guys.” – Billy N. 
• “I worked with Robert Fanning and Melissa Medina for my VA disability claim. They were very knowledgeable, responsive, and helpful in guiding me through the process. They were able to assist me in getting very favorable results in a timely manner. I would recommend this firm to anyone considering this process.” – Mike P. 

SSDI: Eligibility, Application, and Appeals

In order to receive Social Security Disability Insurance, you must have a certain number of work credits.

Depending on your age, the number of credits required may change. Generally, forty (40) credits are required. Twenty (20) of those credits must have been earned within the last ten (10) years, ending on the year when your disability payments began. 

As of 2024, you receive one (1) credit for every $1,730 you earn, with a maximum of four (4) credits earned per year. If you’ve worked five (5) out of the past ten (10) years, you’re likely eligible for SSDI. 

It’s important to keep in mind that you won’t receive benefits until the 6th full month of disability. This means that after a five-month waiting period, which starts on the first full month after the date they decide your disability began, you’ll be able to receive your benefits. If your disability results from ALS, this waiting period is waived. 

To apply for benefits, you’ll need to apply online with the SSA or by calling Social Security’s toll-free number. Using their online portal to submit your application is the best bet. However, the even better bet is to have an experienced attorney help you fill it out to prevent mistakes or errors that could cost you precious time and money.  

To appeal a denied SSDI claim, you’ll need to submit an appeal from their online portal. From there, you’ll have a hearing to determine the outcome of your claim. 

SSI: Understanding Eligibility, Application, and Appeals

In order to receive Social Security Insurance benefits, you’ll need to prove that you have the need. This means that you’ll only be approved for these benefits if you have little to no income or resources. You’ll also need to be able to prove that you’re disabled (or over the age of 65). 

If you earn more than $1,971 per month, you generally won’t be accepted into the Social Security Insurance program. If you make less, however, it’s worth applying for. 

In your application, you’ll need to prove that:

• Your disability will affect your ability to work for more than a year or 
• Will result in your death, or 
• Severely limits daily activity (for children with disabilities). 

In both programs, appealing a denied claim is incredibly important. Claims can be denied for minuscule reasons. Having a team of SSI and SSDI lawyers by your side to strengthen your claim, attend hearings, and work with Social Security will make it much easier to complete the appeals process. 

A Summary of the SSDI and SSI Appeals Process

When the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies an SSDI or SSI claim, it issues a denial notice, which must be contested within 60 days. Our Social Security Disability attorneys have a strong track record of reversing initial denials and successfully securing benefits for clients nationwide.

The appeal process involves several sequential stages. It starts with an informal reconsideration review, where a different examiner at the Disability Determination Section (DDS) reevaluates your claim impartially.

Disability Appeal Hearing

If the claim is denied again at reconsideration, the next step is a disability appeal hearing. Here, an administrative law judge examines the case details and hears arguments supporting the claim’s approval, offering a formal platform to advocate for your rights.

National Appeals Council Review

Should the judge’s decision be unfavorable, the case can be taken to the National Appeals Council. This council has the authority to deny, approve, or dismiss the review request. They will assess whether there were any errors in the judge’s decision or if the law was not properly applied.

Federal District Court Lawsuit

If the Appeals Council also denies your claim, the final option is to file a lawsuit in federal district court. This involves arguing that procedural errors or incorrect legal applications led to the denial. With our legal expertise, you will receive comprehensive support throughout this process, maximizing your chances of obtaining a favorable result.

How the SSI and SSDI Lawyers of Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia Can Help

At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we’re dedicated to helping people with disabilities obtain the ongoing support and compensation they deserve to maintain their livelihoods. 

Our SSI and SSDI lawyers offer a variety of legal services throughout the process. The earlier you start working with us, the easier (and faster) your claim will be. Services we offer for SSI/SSDI applicants include:

Expert Assistance With Your Initial Application

Navigating the SSDI and SSI application process on your own can be overwhelming. Our specialized SSI and SSDI lawyers offer comprehensive support by meticulously filling out your initial application. 

We ensure that all necessary details are accurately captured and submitted, reducing the risk of errors that could delay your claim. With our guidance, you can be confident that your application meets all procedural requirements.

Comprehensive Medical Evidence Collection

A successful SSI or SSDI claim hinges on robust medical evidence. Our experienced team of Florida Social Security disability lawyers works closely with you to gather essential medical records and documentation. 

We liaise with healthcare providers to obtain precise and comprehensive medical reports that clearly demonstrate the extent of your disability. This thorough evidence-collection process strengthens your case, providing a solid foundation for your claim.

Professional Representation at Hearings

When it comes to disability hearings, having a knowledgeable advocate by your side is crucial. Our dedicated SSDI and SSI lawyers represent you at these proceedings, effectively communicating your case to the administrative law judge.

We are adept at presenting factual arguments, questioning witnesses, and addressing any issues that may arise during the hearing. Our goal is to ensure your voice is heard and your case is presented in the best possible light.

Skilled Handling of Appeals for Denied Claims

Facing a denial of your SSI or SSDI claim can be disheartening, however, it does not have to be the end. Our legal team is highly skilled in handling appeals, providing you with an opportunity for approval. 

We analyze the reasons for denial, craft a compelling appeal, and present new evidence if necessary. With our expertise, we work tirelessly to turn your denial into a successful outcome, guiding you through each stage of the appeals process with dedication and precision. 

Contacting Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia’s SSI and SSDI Lawyers

Working with a lawyer for SSDI/SSI cases is extremely important, as these claims can be time-consuming and stressful. One little mistake can end up costing months when a claim is denied for no clear reason. 

Working with Werner, Hoffman, Greig, & Garcia will prevent small errors from costing you months. To learn more about our team or to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Social Security attorneys, please call (800) 320-HELP or use our online contact form.