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Title 2 Social Security Disability (SSD)

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI) is a federal benefit program that provides monthly income to people who can no longer work because of a serious medical condition. It’s funded by the Social Security taxes you’ve paid throughout your working life, so if you’ve worked and paid into the system, you may have already earned these benefits.

SSDI is different from SSI (Supplemental Security Income), which is based on financial need. SSDI is based on your work history.

See If You Qualify

Do You Qualify for SSDI?

You may be eligible for SSDI if:

  • You have a medical condition (physical or mental) that has lasted at least 12 months, is expected to last at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death
  • Your condition prevents you from doing substantial work
  • You have enough work credits based on your employment history (most people need 5 of the last 10 years of work)

 

The Social Security Administration uses a strict definition of disability. It’s not enough to have a serious diagnosis. SSA needs to see that your condition prevents you from performing any meaningful work, given your age, education, and work experience.

Not Sure If Your Condition Qualifies?

Take the 2 Minute Quiz

How the SSDI Process Works

Applying for SSDI takes time, and most people aren’t approved on the first try. Here’s what to expect:

You Apply

You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office. You'll need basic personal information, your work history, and your medical records and providers' contact information.

SSA Reviews Your Case

Your application is sent to your state's Disability Determination Services (DDS). They review your medical records and may ask you to attend an examination. This stage typically takes 3 to 6 months.

You Receive a Decision

SSA will notify you by mail. If approved, you'll learn your monthly benefit amount and when payments begin. If denied — and most initial applications are — that is not the end of the road.

You Can Appeal

A denial is not a final answer. Many people who are ultimately approved were denied at least once first. See what to do if you've been denied →

Contact Social Security Law Group Immediately.
1-866-486-0743

We're here to help.
No upfront fees. If we win your case, our fee is paid from a portion of your Social Security disability back pay.

If You've Been Denied for SSDI

A denial can feel devastating, especially when you’re already dealing with a serious illness or injury. But here’s what’s important to know: most initial SSDI applications are denied, and a denial is not final.

You have the right to appeal, and the appeals process is where many people win their cases – particularly at the hearing stage, where you can present your case directly before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

There are four levels of appeal:

  • Reconsideration — A different SSA examiner reviews your case
  • ALJ Hearing — You present your case before a judge (this is the most important stage)
  • Appeals Council — Reviews the judge’s decision
  • Federal Court — The final option if all else fails

 

The most important thing to know: you have 60 days from the date of your denial letter to file an appeal. Missing this deadline can mean starting the entire process over and losing the back pay you’ve already built up. If you’re close to that deadline, don’t wait.

Recently Denied SSDI?

Get Your Appeal On Track

Social Security Law Group Is Here to Help

Navigating the Social Security system is hard, and it’s even harder when you’re sick, in pain, or worried about your family’s financial future. You shouldn’t have to figure this out alone.

Our disability attorneys work on contingency, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. There’s no upfront cost, no hourly fees – just experienced representation when you need it most.