How to Apply for SSDI from Arcadia and the San Gabriel Valley

You can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a Social Security office. The key to an approval is medical evidence that shows you cannot do substantial work for at least 12 months, plus enough work credits from past jobs. If the first application is denied, you can appeal, and many successful claims are won on appeal.

Who qualifies

• You have worked long enough, and recently enough, in jobs covered by Social Security.
• You have a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• The condition prevents you from doing substantial gainful work, including your past jobs and other work that exists in the economy.

What to include in the application

• Names, addresses and dates for every doctor, clinic and hospital you have seen
• A list of medications and tests
• Your work history for the last several years
• Any statements from doctors about your limitations

The waiting period

SSDI benefits generally begin after a five-month waiting period from the date the disability started. Processing an initial claim often takes several months.

If you are denied

1. Reconsideration: request it within 60 days of the denial notice. A different examiner reviews the file.
2. Hearing: if denied again, request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is often the best chance to present your case.
3. Appeals Council and federal court: further review is available after a hearing decision.

What an SSDI lawyer does and costs

A lawyer gathers medical records, gets supporting statements from your doctors, and represents you at the hearing. Fees for SSDI representation are set by federal rules, are usually paid only if you win, and must be approved by the Social Security Administration.

Help from our Arcadia office

We help people from Arcadia and nearby San Gabriel Valley cities apply and appeal. See our SSDI lawyer in Arcadia page or call for a free consultation.

Talk to an attorney in Arcadia. Free consultation at 255 E Santa Clara St, Suite 210, Arcadia, CA 91006. Call (626) 593-1558 or use the form below.

This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation.