Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can involve extensive medical documentation, strict eligibility requirements, and multiple stages of review. Tyler & Maderer helps Houston-area clients understand the process, prepare their claims, and respond when benefits are denied.
Our attorneys assist with initial applications, reconsideration requests, and disability appeals. We review the medical and vocational evidence in your case, identify gaps or issues in the evidence, and help you determine the appropriate next step based on your circumstances.
Some people may qualify for both programs. An attorney can help determine which benefits may apply based on your work history, financial circumstances, and medical condition.
If you are applying for SSDI or SSI based on a disability, you generally must have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from performing substantial work and has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death. Social Security looks beyond the diagnosis itself and considers your symptoms, medical evidence, functional limitations, age, education, and work history.
Meet Social Security’s disability requirements
Have sufficient work history and work credits
Meet applicable insured-status requirements
Meet Social Security’s disability requirements
Have limited income and resources
Prior work history is not required
Because SSDI and SSI have different non-medical requirements, eligibility depends on both your medical condition and the specific program you are applying for.
Social Security disability benefits may be available for physical and mental health conditions that prevent you from performing substantial work for at least 12 months or are expected to result in death. A diagnosis alone does not necessarily establish eligibility.
Whether you qualify for disability benefits depends on the severity of your condition, the medical evidence supporting your claim, and how your symptoms and limitations affect your ability to perform work-related activities.
Our team will prepare and file your application, confirm all required medical documentation is included, and communicate directly with the Social Security Administration on your behalf.
The timeline for an SSDI claim can vary depending on the details of your case, the amount of medical evidence available, and whether an appeal is needed. Many claims involve multiple stages, including:
Initial Application: Approximately 12 months
Reconsideration: Approximately 12 months
Hearing Request: Approximately 6 months
Delays can happen at any stage of the SSDI process, especially when additional evidence or reviews are required. Having a clear understanding of each step can help you make informed decisions about your claim.
If your claim is denied, you have 60 days to file an appeal. Reapplying instead of appealing could mean losing the back benefits from your original claim. We can quickly assess your case and determine the best course of action, representing you through every appeal stage.
Proving a Social Security Disability claim requires detailed medical documentation, meeting strict SSA deadlines, and, in many cases, preparing for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Since many initial applications are denied, having experienced legal guidance can help you better understand your options and navigate the appeals process.
Tyler & Maderer helps clients throughout the SSDI process, from gathering supporting evidence and completing forms to handling appeals and communicating with the Social Security Administration. Our team works to reduce the stress of the process so you can focus on your health and daily life.
We also assist clients with related disability matters, including long-term disability and VA disability claims. There are no upfront fees for these cases. We are only paid if you recover benefits.
Yes. This is called “concurrent benefits.” If you qualify for SSDI but your monthly benefit is low, you may also be eligible for SSI to make up the difference.
No. SSDI and SSI require that you are unable to engage in any substantially gainful activity due to your condition.
Yes. In many cases, dependent benefits are available under SSDI, but not under SSI.
Absolutely. Conditions such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mental impairments may qualify if they prevent you from working for at least 12 months.
You may still qualify if your earnings stay below Social Security’s substantial gainful activity limit, but the work must not contradict your claimed disability.
If you are applying for SSDI or SSI, appealing a denial, or unsure what to do next, Tyler & Maderer can review your situation and explain your legal options. Call (832)-761-7773 or contact our office to schedule a consultation.