What is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federally administered insurance program funded through payroll taxes. Part of the FICA taxes you pay during your working years is allocated to SSDI, along with Social Security retirement and Medicare.
Created in 1956, SSDI is intended to provide income when a serious disability prevents you from working. Benefits continue while you are unable to work and transition automatically to Social Security retirement benefits once you reach retirement age.
Receiving Your Benefits
With Hogan Smith Law, there is a better way to apply:
40
YEARS EXPERIENCE
400,000
CUSTOMERS AWARDED SSDI
98%*
SSDI SUCCESS RATE
20,000
Resources for other financial needs
50%
Higher Likelihood of Receiving Benefits
97%
Customer Satisfaction Rate
Benefits of Having Representation During Your SSDI Process
Having a knowledgeable representative can make a meaningful difference throughout the SSDI process. With experienced support, individuals with disabilities gain clearer guidance, stronger advocacy, and a better understanding of their options, helping them move forward with confidence as they pursue Social Security disability benefits.
How Do I Apply for SSDI?
To receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, you must submit an application to the Social Security Administration. The initial application—and the accuracy and detail of the information you provide—plays a major role in how quickly a decision is made.
You may choose to complete the application on your own or work with an experienced disability representative, such as Hogan Smith Law, to help ensure everything is completed correctly.
Once submitted, the SSA reviews your application to determine whether you qualify for monthly disability payments. While the process may sound straightforward, approval requires strong medical evidence and detailed documentation showing that you meet the SSA’s legal definition of disability. Errors or missing information in the application can lead to delays or denials, which is why careful preparation is so important.
SSDI Opens the Door to Multiple Benefits and Financial Support
Approval for Social Security Disability Insurance provides access to valuable benefits that go beyond monthly income, offering financial relief and resources that can improve quality of life and long-term stability.
Medicare Coverage
You may become eligible for medical, hospital, and prescription drug coverage 24 months after your SSDI benefits begin.
LTD Protection
If you have private long-term disability (LTD) insurance, applying for SSDI is often required and can help protect your ongoing LTD benefits.
Dependent Benefits
Approval may activate benefits for eligible children under age 18, potentially increasing your household income by up to 50% of your monthly benefit.
Tax Relief
Depending on your total income, a portion of your SSDI benefits may not be subject to federal income taxes.
COBRA Extension
Your COBRA health coverage may be extended for up to an additional 11 months.
Retirement Benefits
SSDI approval triggers a freeze on your Social Security earnings record, which can help prevent gaps in earnings and may result in higher retirement benefits
later.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments
The SSA reviews cost-of-living increases each year, which may result in higher monthly benefit payments.
Return-to-Work Incentives
If you decide to return to work, there are programs and protections in place that allow you to work while maintaining benefits for a period of time, along with access to free employment support services.
How Much Money Can I Get From Social Security Disability?
SSDI benefit amounts are based on your earnings history and the amount you paid into Social Security through FICA taxes while you were working. The Social Security Administration uses this information to calculate your average lifetime earnings and determine your monthly benefit amount. Because every work history is different, benefit amounts vary from person to person. To get a more accurate estimate based on your individual earnings, you can use the SSDI benefit calculator below.
What if I'm Denied?
If your initial application was denied, don’t lose hope. Hogan Smith Law can assist you with the appeals process—even if you originally applied for Social Security Disability Insurance on your own. Claimants who have representation at SSDI hearings are far more likely to receive a favorable outcome than those who proceed without support. Having experienced guidance on your side can significantly improve your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect during the social security disability application process?
The social security disability application process can be complex and time-consuming. Initially, you'll need to gather essential documentation and submit your application, detailing your medical condition and employment history. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, which may require additional information. Many applicants face initial denials, making it crucial to have experienced guidance. At Hogan Smith Law, we simplify this process for you, increasing your chances of a successful claim. Contact us today to ensure you have the support needed for a smooth application experience.
How can I increase my chances of winning a social security disability appeal?
Winning a social security disability appeal requires thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the appeals process. Begin by reviewing the reasons for your initial denial and gather any additional supporting evidence. Having expert legal representation can significantly boost your chances; Hogan Smith Law specializes in presenting compelling cases for appeals. Our team will work with you to strengthen your case and guide you through every step, maximizing your likelihood of success. Don't face the appeals process alone—reach out to our experts for assistance.
What are common reasons for social security disability claim denials?
Common reasons for social security disability claim denials include insufficient medical evidence, non-compliance with treatment, and errors in the application. Many claims are denied due to a lack of clear demonstration of disability severity or an unaddressed discrepancy in documentation. Hogan Smith Law can help you identify and address these issues effectively, enhancing the chances of claim approval. Need assistance with your claim? Contact us to learn how we can guide you through the complexities of the approval process.
How important is medical documentation in a social security disability claim?
Medical documentation is crucial in a social security disability claim. It serves as the primary evidence of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. Comprehensive and up-to-date medical records, including doctors' reports and test results, support the validity of your claim. Hogan Smith Law recognizes the importance of detailed documentation and assists clients in gathering and presenting the necessary medical evidence. Enhance your claim's credibility—contact us to ensure you have adequate medical documentation.
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