Answers to your most important questions
General Questions
What is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides monthly benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death. Eligibility requires a sufficient work history and Social Security tax contributions. Successfully obtaining benefits depends heavily on how medical evidence is developed and presented to the SSA – which is where experienced representation makes a significant difference.
What's the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history and Social Security tax contributions. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program available to individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Some individuals qualify for both programs simultaneously. Alliant Disability provides representation for both SSDI and SSI claims, developing the medical evidence and legal strategy required to meet SSA standards for each.
How long does the SSDI application process take?
Initial decisions from the SSA typically take 3 to 6 months. If your claim is denied and an appeal is necessary, the process can extend to 1 to 2 years or more, depending on your location and whether an Administrative Law Judge hearing is required. Because the timeline is long and the stakes are high at each stage, having experienced representation from the outset helps ensure your claim is developed correctly, submitted completely, and pursued aggressively through every level of review.
What medical conditions qualify for SSDI?
The SSA evaluates a broad range of conditions, including cancer, spinal disorders, PTSD, neurological disorders, cardiovascular conditions, autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, diabetes, and many others. However, the diagnosis alone is rarely enough. Approval depends on the quality, completeness, and presentation of medical evidence. Even conditions that would otherwise qualify are frequently denied when documentation is insufficient or improperly submitted. We develop and present the medical evidence necessary to meet SSA standards and support a favorable determination.
What medical conditions qualify for SSDI?
The SSA evaluates a broad range of conditions, including cancer, spinal disorders, PTSD, neurological disorders, cardiovascular conditions, autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, diabetes, and many others. However, the diagnosis alone is rarely enough. Approval depends on the quality, completeness, and presentation of medical evidence. Even conditions that would otherwise qualify are frequently denied when documentation is insufficient or improperly submitted. We develop and present the medical evidence necessary to meet SSA standards and support a favorable determination.
About Our Services
What exactly do you do?
Alliant Disability provides full legal representation for Social Security Disability claims. We assess eligibility, develop the medical evidence record, coordinate documentation, prepare and submit claims in accordance with SSA legal and evidentiary standards, and represent clients at every stage of the process – including Administrative Law Judge hearings. Our attorneys handle every aspect of your claim so that nothing is overlooked and your case is positioned for the strongest possible outcome.
Are you attorneys?
Yes. Alliant Disability is a Social Security Disability representation firm. Our attorneys focus exclusively on SSDI and SSI claims and represent clients at every stage of the process – from initial applications through reconsideration, Administrative Law Judge hearings, Appeals Council review, and beyond. You will not be referred elsewhere. We handle your case from start to finish.
How much do your services cost?
Our representation is provided on a contingency fee basis in accordance with SSA regulations. That means there are no upfront costs and no fees of any kind unless benefits are awarded. If we are successful, our fee is a percentage of your back pay award, subject to the statutory cap set by federal law. We offer a free case evaluation to get started. No financial risk to you – at any point in the process.
Can you guarantee my application will be approved?
No outcome can be guaranteed, and representation is provided on a contingency fee basis consistent with SSA regulations. What we can tell you is that claimants with experienced representation are statistically more likely to be approved, particularly at the Administrative Law Judge hearing stage where evidence and legal argument are most critical. Our job is to develop the strongest possible case and present it effectively at every level.
The Application Process
What documents do I need to apply for SSDI?
A complete SSDI application requires your Social Security number, proof of age, work history for the past 15 years, recent W-2 forms or tax returns, and comprehensive medical documentation – including names and contact information for all treating physicians and facilities, medical records, test results, and treatment history. How that medical evidence is compiled and presented is as important as the documents themselves. We coordinate the entire documentation process and ensure that your medical record meets SSA evidentiary standards before submission.
What happens if my application is denied?
A denial is not the end of your case – but you must act within 60 days of receiving your denial letter. There are four levels of appeal: Reconsideration, Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), Appeals Council Review, and Federal Court Review. The ALJ hearing stage is where most successful outcomes occur, and where skilled legal representation has the greatest impact. We represent clients at all levels of appeal and build the evidentiary record and legal argument needed to succeed.
Can I work while receiving SSDI benefits?
SSA rules permit limited work activity under certain conditions. The Trial Work Period allows beneficiaries to test their ability to work for up to 9 months without affecting benefits. Additional protections apply beyond the Trial Work Period. These rules are complex and individual circumstances vary. We advise clients on work activity and SSA compliance as part of our representation, ensuring that any earned income is properly reported and that your benefits are protected.
How far back can I receive benefits?
SSDI benefits may be paid retroactively for up to 12 months prior to your application date, subject to a 5-month waiting period measured from your established disability onset date. Establishing the correct onset date is a legal determination that affects the size of your back pay award. The sooner you apply – and the sooner you have representation developing your case – the more of that retroactive period you preserve. Contact us for a free case evaluation before more time passes.
Getting Started
How do I get started?
Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation. During that evaluation, we will assess your eligibility, review any prior denials or pending claims, and explain exactly how we can represent you. There are no upfront costs and no fees unless benefits are awarded. If you have received a denial letter, do not wait – you have 60 days to act.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring any denial letters, notices of action, or SSA correspondence you have received, along with any medical records or physician information available to you. If you have none of these, do not let that stop you from calling. We will identify what is needed and coordinate the development of your medical evidence record as part of our representation.
Can family members help with the application?
Yes. If your condition makes it difficult to manage communications or paperwork, a family member may participate in the process alongside you. As your legal representatives, we take primary responsibility for developing and pursuing your claim. Family members are welcome to be involved in consultations and kept informed as the case progresses.