Unable to Work? Get the Financial Support You Need

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. You must have a medical condition that meets two criteria: it must be expected to last for at least one year or result in death, and it must prevent you from performing “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA).

In 2026, the SGA earnings limit is $1,690 per month for non-blind individuals. The SSA also reviews your work history to see if you have earned enough “work credits” through your past employment. If you haven’t worked long enough to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a need-based program for those with limited income and resources. Because the application process is rigorous, having an experienced legal team is vital to ensure your medical evidence is presented clearly.

While both programs provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, they have different eligibility requirements. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is essentially an insurance policy you “paid into” via FICA taxes during your working years. Your benefit amount is based on your previous earnings.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income), on the other hand, is a needs-based program funded by general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes. It is designed for aged, blind, and disabled individuals who have little to no income or resources. You do not need a work history to qualify for SSI. In some cases, individuals may qualify for “concurrent benefits,” receiving payments from both programs. Navigating the specific documentation for each can be overwhelming, which is why thousands of claimants rely on professional legal guidance to manage their filings.

One of the most common questions we receive is, “What is your fee?” We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs and no out-of-pocket expenses for you to start your case. We only get paid if we successfully win your claim and you receive back-pay benefits.

The fee is typically set by federal law and must be approved by the Social Security Administration. Generally, it is limited to 25% of your past-due benefits, up to a maximum cap set by the SSA. This structure ensures that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation. Our firm offers free consultations 24/7, so you can understand your options without any financial risk.

It is a frustrating reality that the majority of initial Social Security applications are denied. Common reasons include a lack of “hard” medical evidence, earning slightly above the income limit, or failing to follow prescribed treatments from a doctor. Sometimes, the denial is simply due to a technical error on the complex paperwork.

A denial is not the end of the road; it is often just the beginning of the appeals process. You have 60 days to appeal a decision. During this phase, an experienced lawyer can help gather specific vocational evidence and doctor statements to bridge the gap in your file. With over 60 years of experience, our firm specializes in identifying why a claim was rejected and building a stronger case for the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing.

When your financial future is on the line, the quality of your legal representation matters. You should look for a firm with a deep history in disability law—experience matters because the SSA’s regulations change frequently. A firm with over 60 years of experience has seen every type of medical condition and knows how to navigate the specific preferences of local judges.

Beyond experience, communication is key. You deserve a firm that treats you with respect and keeps you informed. Our clients frequently describe our service as exceptional because we make ourselves available 24/7 to answer questions. We prioritize clear, empathetic communication so you never feel like just another case number. When you are unable to work and stressed about money, you need a partner who is as committed to your case as you are.