SSDI Disability

What's the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?

The Social Security Administration issues both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security (SSI), two of the largest federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities.

Only individuals with a disability and specific medical criteria can qualify for either program, but there are distinct differences:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that pays individuals if they become disabled, before retirement age, and can no longer work.

It is often referred to as “workers’ disability” because many are injured while on the job and require income to compensate for their long-term disability.

While there is an income limit on Social Security Disability Insurance, injury settlements and the court awarded money typically do not affect it, unless the award is categorized as lost wages.

Social Security Insurance (SSI)

Unlike SSDI, Social Security Insurance (SSI), also known as Supplemental Security Income, is a need-based federal program for people with limited income and resources who are:

• Disabled
• Blind
• Or age 65 or older

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance, Social Security is based on need.

If you were to receive compensation from a personal injury lawsuit, the amount of social security you receive would be affected.

If you have questions, it is highly recommended you talk with an attorney to discuss options on how to handle a settlement or court-awarded money.

How to Apply for SSI or SSDI?

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits initially is a relatively simple process.

If you are ready to qualify for disability and begin with your Social Security claims, there are three (3) routes you can take to apply:

1. Fill out the application online
2. Call the Social Security toll-free line at (800) 772-1213
3. Visit any Social Security office in the United States.

If you would like to apply online, the Social Security Administration highly recommends making an appointment prior.

Statistically speaking, most Social Security Disability benefits applications are denied at the initial stage.

This is normal.

If you were denied after the initial application process, you should contact Social Security Disability lawyers to help guide you in future steps.

Their legal services can help you resolve your SSDI claims and obtain disability insurance.

Typically, the Social Security Disability claims process follows a series of steps:

• The initial submission of the Social Security Disability application
• Reconsideration Request
• Social Security Disability hearing – A Social Security disability attorney will help develop your case properly before the hearing date. While there is no guarantee that benefits will be awarded during the hearing, a disability lawyer can advocate on your behalf at a hearing in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ).
• Appeals Council review
• Appeal with the Federal District Court

Why do I need a Disability Lawyer?

Navigating the legal landscape can be confusing, especially considering the vast amount of paperwork and research that needs to be completed.

A disability lawyer is well-versed with Social Security rules and regulations and will help you through the process.

In some cases, you may not need a social security disability lawyer.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free, no-obligation case consultation to find out if an SSDI lawyer is even necessary for your case.

When Should I Get a Lawyer for SSDI?

If your initial request for Social Security Disability Insurance is denied, it is time to enlist the help of SSDI lawyers.

Before appearing at the hearing, an SSDI lawyer will help compile evidence.

Everything from medical records to the treating doctor’s testimony will be gathered to present your case.

The evidence will be presented at the hearing to further support your need for disability insurance.

It is possible to win a disability case without the help of a lawyer, but the likelihood of winning is significantly decreased.

According to a NOLO survey, 50% of readers who had lawyers were approved for benefits at a hearing versus 23% of those who didn’t.

How Much Does a Social Security Disability Lawyer Cost?

A lawyer can only charge you for the help they’ve given if Social Security approves your application for benefits.

The fee can be no more than 25% of your back pay, up to a minimum of $6,000.

However, in special circumstances, a disability lawyer can submit a fee petition to Social Security, asking for more than the fee cap allows.

TorHoerman Law, SSDI Lawyers

If you have suffered an injury and are no longer able to work, Social Security Disability Insurance can help you through a difficult time.

It isn’t uncommon to get denied for disability when applying for the first time, but our team of Social Security Disability lawyers with years of experience is here to help you through the process.

Contact TorHoerman Law Firm SSDI lawyers for a free initial consultation regarding your disability claims.

For more information, our law office can be reached by our toll-free number (888) 508-6752.