7 Things You Need to Know About Social Security Disability Benefits
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be overwhelming—especially if your health is already limiting your ability to work. At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we help individuals and families throughout Alabama navigate the complex process of filing for benefits, appealing denials, and understanding what’s truly involved.
Here are 7 essential things to know if you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits.
1. There Are Two Main Programs: SSDI and SSI
SSDI is for workers who’ve paid into Social Security long enough through payroll taxes and are now unable to work due to a disability. SSI, on the other hand, is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources—regardless of work history.
Many people qualify for one or the other—some for both.
2. You Must Prove You’re "Totally Disabled"
Social Security defines disability very specifically. To qualify, you must show that:
You have a severe, medically determinable impairment
Your condition prevents you from doing any substantial gainful work
The condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Partial disability or short-term medical leave usually won’t meet the standard.
3. Most Initial Applications Are Denied
Roughly 70% of initial SSDI/SSI applications are denied, often for:
Missing medical evidence
Incomplete paperwork
Failure to respond to SSA requests
Technical issues (e.g., not enough work credits)
Don’t give up. Many claims are later approved through the appeals process.
4. Timing Matters
You should apply as soon as your condition prevents you from working. Waiting too long could:
Delay your benefits
Reduce back pay
Risk losing eligibility
It can take months—or even over a year—to receive a decision, so time is of the essence.
5. A Disability Lawyer Can Greatly Improve Your Chances
While it’s possible to apply without legal help, having an attorney on your side can:
Ensure accurate, complete documentation
Coordinate with your doctors
Represent you in hearings or appeals
Help recover maximum back pay and ongoing benefits
Most SSD attorneys (including us) work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
6. You May Qualify for Back Pay or Retroactive Benefits
If approved, you could receive back pay from the date you became disabled—sometimes months (or even years) before you applied. You may also qualify for retroactive benefits if you became disabled long before you applied for SSDI.
Understanding this timeline can mean thousands of dollars in additional compensation.
7. A Denial Is Not the End
If you receive a denial letter, don’t panic. You have the right to appeal, and many claims are approved at later stages, especially at the hearing level before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Be sure to:
File your appeal within 60 days
Gather stronger medical evidence
Consider legal representation for your hearing
Let Nelson, Bryan, and Cross Help You Through the Process
Navigating the Social Security system is no easy task, especially while dealing with illness or injury. At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we guide Alabama clients through every stage—from initial applications to final appeals.
We understand the rules, the timelines, and how to make your case as strong as possible.
If you’re struggling with a disability and need help securing benefits, contact us today. We’re here to fight for your rights.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
