Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be challenging when you’re already managing a medical condition that affects your ability to work. Understanding eligibility requirements, gathering medical evidence, and meeting important deadlines are all essential parts of the process.
Tyler & Maderer, PLLC helps San Antonio residents with SSDI and SSI applications, denied claims, and appeals. Our attorneys provide personalized guidance to help clients understand their options and pursue the benefits they may qualify for.
Although SSDI and SSI are both administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), they serve different groups of applicants and have distinct non-medical eligibility requirements.
Provides benefits to qualifying individuals with sufficient work history who meet Social Security's disability requirements.
Provides needs-based assistance to eligible individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
Some applicants may qualify for both programs depending on their circumstances.
The Social Security Administration evaluates your medical condition, work history, and ability to perform work-related activities when determining eligibility.
Medical evidence that may support your claim includes:
A diagnosis alone does not guarantee approval. The SSA also considers how your condition affects your ability to work.
A denied application doesn’t necessarily mean you cannot receive benefits. You may have options to challenge the decision through Social Security’s appeals process.
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A new review of your application and supporting evidence.
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An opportunity to present your case before an Administrative Law Judge.
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A request for the Appeals Council to review the hearing decision.
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The option to seek judicial review after completing the applicable administrative appeal stages.
Generally, you have 60 days from receiving a Social Security determination or decision to request an appeal. Our attorneys can help you understand the applicable deadlines and prepare for the next stage.
San Antonio residents can apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or through a local office, depending on the program and circumstances. If your case reaches the hearing stage, the SSA has a hearing office serving San Antonio and surrounding communities.
Tyler & Maderer assists clients with reviewing claims, gathering relevant evidence, preparing appeals, and navigating disability hearings.
Yes. Some individuals qualify for both programs if they meet the applicable eligibility requirements.
Processing times vary based on medical evidence, claim complexity, and whether an appeal is necessary.
In some circumstances, yes. However, work activity and earnings can affect eligibility. The rules differ between SSDI and SSI.
Legal representation is not required, but an attorney can assist with applications, evidence, denied claims, and appeals.
If you’re applying for SSDI or SSI benefits or appealing a denied claim, Tyler & Maderer, PLLC can help you understand your next steps.
Contact our attorneys to discuss your situation and available legal options.