Supplemental Security Income Lawyer
Why Are There Two Disability Benefits Programs?
What’s the difference between the Social Security Disability (SSD) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program? Why not just have one program for everyone?
The SSD program is funded by the Social Security taxes that are taken out of your paychecks. Because of that, whether or not you’re eligible for benefits depends on your work history. If you have worked enough, and for long enough, you’ve passed the first test. Although you still have to prove you’re disabled according to the SSA’s rules, the Supplemental Security Income program is funded by general tax revenues and is based solely on need — no work history is required.
Combined, the two programs provide a wide safety net for millions of Americans who are unable to support themselves because of disability.
SSI benefits start adding up on the same day you apply. In other words, the sooner you apply the better. My name is Michael G. Myers Attorney at Law and as an attorney, I can help you prepare your application for SSI benefits, or appeal a denied claim. Disability law is the only type of law I practice. For answers to other questions you have about the Supplemental Security Income program — call or contact my law offices today for a free consultation.
Supplemental Security Income Claims
As a lawyer, I handle Supplemental Security Income claims and appeals for disabled adults and children throughout the central Indiana region.
The basic eligibility requirements (for most SSI applicants) are that you’re disabled and do not expect to be able to do any work for at least 12 months; and that you have less than $2,000 dollars in assets. You should also know that applications for SSI benefits cannot be submitted online. You have to go to an SSA office.
Frequently Asked Questions: Supplemental Security Income
A Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim involves strict medical and financial rules, and many applicants feel uncertain about the evidence the Social Security Administration requires. These questions and answers provide guidance that reflects current federal standards and Indiana‑specific claim considerations.
What are the chances of getting SSI with help from a lawyer?
A lawyer cannot promise approval, but legal representation can significantly strengthen your claim by improving the accuracy and completeness of your application. An attorney can gather detailed medical documentation, obtain functional assessments that demonstrate your limitations and help you understand and overcome any weak points in your claim.
A lawyer can also prepare you for hearings, present arguments that highlight how your limitations affect you and challenge the assessment of vocational experts testifying for the government. This can often overcome denials.
What is the most an SSDI lawyer can charge their clients?
Under federal law, the legal fees for SSI and SSDI representation are limited. An attorney may charge up to 25 percent of your past‑due benefits with a maximum fee of $9,200. This fee applies only when SSA approves the fee agreement.
Additionally, a lawyer cannot collect fees from future monthly benefits. They may bill separately for case expenses like medical record retrieval or vocational reports, but those costs must be reasonable and disclosed before they are incurred.
What medical conditions qualify for SSI or SSDI?
SSA evaluates whether your medically documented condition prevents full‑time work rather than approving claims based on diagnosis alone. However, SSA’s Blue Book lists many impairments that may qualify when supported by objective evidence. These include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders such as severe spine disorders or major joint dysfunction
- Neurological conditions such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosis
- Cardiovascular diseases such as chronic heart failure
- Respiratory disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or major depression
- Immune system disorders such as lupus or HIV
While the Blue Book highlights common categories, many other conditions can qualify when they cause significant functional limits. SSA may also approve claims through a medical‑vocational analysis when symptoms prevent sustained work. This is often so even if the impairment does not meet a listed requirement.
All Disability, All the Time …
There Is No Fee Unless You Receive Benefits
Indianapolis Area: 317-489-4066 / Indiana Toll Free: 888-339-4149
Start accruing Supplemental Security Income benefits today. To start the process, call either of the two telephone numbers listed above or take a few moments to contact me online.