SSDI & SSI FAQ | Social Security Disability Questions — Bonville & Howard

Question 1

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Accepted Answer

SSDI is a federal program that pays monthly benefits to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a qualifying disability. The amount you receive is based on your earnings history, not your current income or assets.

Question 2

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Accepted Answer

SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history — it is available to adults and children who meet the financial and medical criteria.

Question 3

Can I receive both SSDI and SSI at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your SSDI benefit is low enough, you may qualify for SSI to supplement it. This is called a "concurrent" claim. Our attorneys will evaluate whether you may be eligible for both programs when we review your case.

Question 4

What conditions qualify for disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

Social Security does not maintain a fixed list of qualifying diagnoses. Instead, it evaluates whether your condition — physical or mental — prevents you from performing substantial work. Common qualifying conditions include back and spine disorders, heart disease, cancer, mental health conditions, diabetes, neurological disorders, and many others. The key is how your condition limits your ability to function.

Question 5

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Initial applications typically take three to six months for a decision. If denied and you request reconsideration, add another three to six months. An ALJ hearing can take an additional year or more depending on the hearing office's backlog. The total process from application to hearing approval often takes two to three years — which is why it is important to start as soon as possible and to have experienced representation.

Question 6

How do I know if I qualify for SSDI?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for SSDI, you generally must have worked long enough and recently enough to have earned sufficient work credits, and you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The exact credit requirements depend on your age. Our free evaluation will tell you whether you likely qualify.

Question 7

Can I apply if I have never worked?

Accepted Answer

If you have never worked or have limited work history, you may still qualify for SSI, which is based on financial need rather than work history. Children with disabilities may also qualify for SSI regardless of their parents' work history, subject to household income and asset limits.

Question 8

Can I work part-time and still receive benefits?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Social Security allows a Trial Work Period for SSDI recipients, and there are rules around Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) that determine how much you can earn. The rules are complex and vary by program. We strongly recommend speaking with one of our attorneys before returning to any work while a claim is pending or benefits are being paid.

Question 9

Does my age affect my chances of approval?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Social Security's rules are generally more favorable for older applicants. Once you reach age 50, and especially age 55, the agency applies a different set of vocational rules that make it easier to qualify — particularly if you can no longer perform your past work. Our attorneys are experienced in using these "grid rules" to your advantage.

Question 10

I was denied. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Do not give up — and do not wait. You have 60 days from the date of your denial notice to file an appeal. Missing this deadline can mean starting the entire process over. Contact us immediately so we can review your denial letter, identify the reasons for denial, and build a stronger case for your appeal.

Question 11

Why are so many applications denied?

Accepted Answer

The Social Security Administration denies approximately 65–70% of initial applications. Common reasons include insufficient medical evidence, earnings above the SGA threshold, failure to follow prescribed treatment, and the agency's determination that you can still perform some type of work. Many of these denials can be successfully overturned on appeal with proper representation.

Question 12

What is an ALJ hearing?

Accepted Answer

An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing is a formal proceeding where you present your case in person (or by video) before a judge who is independent of the SSA. The judge reviews all medical and vocational evidence, hears testimony from you and any experts, and issues a written decision. This is the stage where most successful claims are won, and having an attorney represent you significantly increases your chances of approval.

Question 13

What if the ALJ also denies my claim?

Accepted Answer

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request review by the SSA Appeals Council. If the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, you may file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court. Bonville & Howard handles cases through federal court when necessary — a level of commitment few disability firms offer.

Question 14

Should I start a new application instead of appealing?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Appealing preserves your original filing date, which affects how much back pay you may be entitled to. Starting over resets that date and can cost you months or years of retroactive benefits. There are limited situations where a new application makes sense — our attorneys will advise you on the best strategy for your specific situation.

Question 15

What happens after I submit the online intake form?

Accepted Answer

A member of our team will call you — typically within one business day — to discuss your situation in more detail. If we believe you have a viable claim, we will schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. There is no obligation and no cost for this initial review.

Question 16

What should I bring to my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

It helps to have any denial letters you have received, a list of your medical providers and treating physicians, a summary of your work history for the past 15 years, and any medical records you already have. Don't worry if you don't have everything — we can help gather what's needed.

Question 17

Will I work with the same attorney throughout my case?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once your case is assigned to an attorney, that attorney will handle your matter from start to finish. You will have direct access to your attorney and their support team throughout the process.

Question 18

How will you keep me updated on my case?

Accepted Answer

We provide regular status updates and will contact you promptly whenever there is a development in your case. You can also reach us by phone or email at any time with questions. We believe communication is a core part of good representation.

Question 19

Do you handle cases outside of Connecticut?

Accepted Answer

We serve clients throughout the Tri-State Area. Please contact us to confirm whether we can represent you in your state.

Question 20

How much does it cost to hire Bonville & Howard?

Accepted Answer

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.

Question 21

How is the contingency fee calculated?

Accepted Answer

If we win, our fee is set by federal law at 25% of your back pay award, up to a maximum of $7,200 (the current SSA cap). This fee is paid directly from your back pay by the Social Security Administration — you never write us a check. If we do not win, you owe us nothing.

Question 22

Are there any other costs I should know about?

Accepted Answer

In some cases there may be small out-of-pocket costs for obtaining medical records or other documentation. We will always discuss any such costs with you in advance. These expenses are typically minimal and are separate from attorney fees.

Question 23

What is "back pay" and how much could I receive?

Accepted Answer

Back pay refers to the benefits you were entitled to from the time you became disabled (or your application date, whichever is later) through the date of your approval. Depending on how long your case takes, back pay awards can be substantial — sometimes tens of thousands of dollars. Our attorneys work to maximize both your monthly benefit and your back pay.

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