Social Security Disability

Using social security is NOT a handout. You’ve paid into this, now it’s your chance to redeem your hard-earned money.

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Help Filing for Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability (SSD)

To qualify for SSD all of the following must be true

  • You cannot do work you did previously or adjust to other work, available in the national economy, at the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level because of your medical condition(s).
  • Your condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least 1 year or to result in death.
  • You have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security in order to qualify for benefits.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability

To qualify for SSI all of the following must be true

  • You cannot do work you did previously (if you have a work history) or adjust to other work, available in the national economy, at the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level because of your medical condition(s).

Frequently Asked Questions

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Who should apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)/Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?

Anyone unable to perform substantial gainful work activity due to a physical or mental health condition, or a combination of the two, may be eligible for SSDI and/or SSI benefits. Individuals under full retirement age who are receiving Social Security Retirement benefits may be entitled to higher monthly benefits and Medicare under SSDI if they subsequently become disabled.

What is the SSDI/SSI application process?

An application for SSDI/SSI benefits must first be filed with the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSDI applications can be filed online at www.SSA.gov, but SSI applications must be completed by making an appointment with the Social Security Administration.

Once SSA collects your initial information, your file will be sent to the designated state agency for medical review. They will determine whether your condition meets SSA’s definition of a disabled individual. The applicant may receive written and/or verbal correspondence from both SSA and the state agency as the claim is in process.

You may be asked to complete additional forms and/or attend one or more consultative examinations (CE). The state agency uses CEs when it does not find the evidence it needs in your medical records, or if the evidence is not up to date. All CEs are paid by the SSA.

Once a decision is made, typically within a year, you will have 60 days to appeal the decision.

What is Social Security’s definition of a disabled individual?

The Social Security Act defines disability as the “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment, which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

Does it cost to have you help me apply?

Our fees are set by the Social Security Administration. We only get paid if we win your case. We will never ask for a fee up front. If we win your case, we will get paid 25% of your past due benefits up to a maximum cap ($7,200 current as of 06/2024) set by the Social Security Administration.

Will there be any expenses that I may be responsible to reimburse you for?

If we win your case we may ask you to reimburse us for our out of pocket expenses associated with your claim such as for the cost of obtaining your medical records. If you are a Veteran, First Responder or have ever worked as a First Responder we will cover those costs for you. Thank you for your service.

Stories from Hardworking People Like You

I highly recommend Destinee Schuster to anyone looking for help with Medicare or Social Security Disability benefits. She is highly attentive to detail and truly cares about her clients. She is one of a kind and will always go the extra mile to ensure that her clients are well represented. She is a true asset to her community and to her field.

Christina Miller

Patient Support Services USA is fabulous, and Destinee Schuster has been a Blessing. She takes care of everything. I don’t have the stress of filling out paperwork or application. You need legal help on SSDI, get a hold of this office immediately. They have answers to your questions. They are definitely 5-stars!!!

Cheryl Stringham

Until I met Destinee at Patient Support Services, I felt lost and was giving up on the process to seek disability. She and her team have been so understanding and supportive, and have been there at every step.They have answered my questions, helped me gather records, and even appeared in front of a judge with me. Whether I receive a positive judgement or not, I am confident that Destinee will explain and assist with the next steps of my journey with knowledge, professionalism and great deal of heart.

C.G.

Social Security Disability Inquiry

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or “Disability” provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work. After speaking with our Accredited Disability Representative you’ll walk away feeling educated and confident about your next steps. Help us get started by completing the intake questions to the best of your ability.

Ticket to Work

Help file for Ticket to Work

To qualify for TTW all of the following must be true

  • You receive Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI Benefits)
  • You are between the ages of 18 and 64
Social Security Administration - Ticket to Work

Overview

The Ticket to Work Program is a free and voluntary program that helps people with disabilities ages 18–64 who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The program’s goal is to help people with disabilities: Become financially independent, Find and keep a job, Improve their earning potential, Prepare for long-term success in the workplace, and Connect with services and support

FAQs

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What is the goal of the Ticket to Work program?

The Ticket to Work program supports disabled workers who desire to obtain financial independence and self-sufficiency without causing them to lose critical healthcare and other benefits before they’re firmly established in a work environment.

Will I lose my benefits if I start working?

Once you start earning income, some of your benefits may change. You can get free Benefits Counseling Services through our office to help you understand how work may affect your benefits and prepare for any changes.

Is the Ticket to Work program good for me?

The Ticket Program is a good fit for people who receive Social Security disability benefits, want to improve their earning potential, and are committed to preparing for long-term success in the workplace.

What do you charge to help me with Ticket to Work?

The Social Security Ticket to Work program is FREE and VOLUNTARY. As a participating Ticket to Work service provider, we are compensated from Social Security to offer you these services free of charge.

Stories from Hardworking People Like You

Attention Social Security Beneficiaries! Benefits are a breath of relief, but you may notice that just a little more income would be helpful or nice to have. There is a disconnect when it comes to benefits and working, most recipients feel that they’ll be cut off if they begin work, but this is a myth! Fortunately, Social Security has programs like Ticket to Work that will allow you to work while still receiving benefits. And the best part? All the services are completely voluntary and free! Patient Support Services has great opportunities we have to offer you!

David Fitzsimmons

Ticket to Work Inquiry

After speaking with our Ticket to Work Specialist you’ll walk away feeling educated and confident about your next steps. Help us get started by completing the intake questions to the best of your ability.