WHAT IS SSDI AND HOW CAN A DISABLED WORKER APPLY?

SSDI simply stands for "Social Security Disability Insurance." 

It's an insurance program mandated by the federal government and paid for by payroll deductions (called FICA withholding). The government withholds 7.5% of your wages and puts the money into a Social Security trust fund.  Your employer matches this money.  If you become disabled, you can apply for a monthly benefit out of the trust fund.  It's called simply "Social Security disability."

IS IT WELFARE?  No, it is not welfare.  It is an insurance plan that workers pay for--much the same way you would pay for auto insurance, life insurance or homeowners insurance.  It's just that the federal government forces you to buy it when you go to work.

MUST I BE POOR TO COLLECT A BENEFIT?  No.  SSDI is not means tested. You don't need to be poor to qualify for it. There is no limit on how much money you have, what type of home you live in, what property you own, etc.  You don't have to prove that you need the benefit financially--only that you are disabled and meet the terms of disability under the regulations.

IS THE SSDI BENEFIT HARD TO GET?  Yes.  You must prove that you are unable to work at any full-time job in the US economy because of your medical condition(s). The rules are very strict.  It can take 4 months to 24 months or longer to get approved.  Many people get attorneys or other specialists called non-attorney representatives to help them prove that they are disabled according to Social Security's rules.  A hearing before a federal administrative law judge is often required.

WHAT WILL AN ATTORNEY COST?   A representative cannot charge you a fee until (a) you are approved for a benefit and (b) you receive a back payment award.  Then, Social Security will withhold an agreed upon percentage of back pay for the representative.  If you are never awarded a benefit OR if you are awarded a benefit but without any back pay, your representative cannot charge a fee.

HOW DO I BEGIN?  You can apply for a disability benefit yourself or make an appointment with a representative to help you file an application.  Apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov.  

The Forsythe Firm will meet with you at no cost or obligation, review your claim, and decide if we can add value to your case.  If we represent you there will be no charge for our representation until you win + receive past due benefits. Social Security will withhold our fee from your past due benefits and pay us directly. Our initial consultation is absolutely free, without obligation and it is confidential. You will need an appointment.

Call (256) 799-0297 in Huntsville.

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