Frequently Asked Questions

We only get paid if you win. If your case is approved and you receive retroactive (backpay) benefits, our fee is 25% of that amount or the statutory maximum, whichever is less.

If you are not approved or do not receive backpay, you owe us nothing.

Processing times vary depending on the stage and location of your claim.

• Initial application:  Usually takes 6 to 9 months for a decision.
• Reconsideration: If denied, this second review also takes several months.
• Hearing level: After requesting a hearing, it typically takes 9 to 12 months to get a hearing date.
• If Social Security sends you for a medical exam or if your case is particularly complex, it could take longer.

If you experience a serious emergency like an eviction, foreclosure, utility shutoff or terminal illness diagnosis, please let us know.  We can request that your case be expedited.

Yes, but with limits. Working after applying for benefits can negatively affect your claim. 

If you return to full-time work after being unable to work for at least 12 consecutive months, we may still be able to help you qualify for a closed period of disability, which can result in backpay for the time you were unable to work.

No. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are federal programs, which means we can represent clients anywhere in the United States. We are headquartered in Kentucky, but have staff in other states as well.

While the national average approval rate at the hearing level is around 50%, our win rate consistently falls between 75% and 85% per year. It’s important to know that some judges approve fewer than 10% of the cases they hear, so strong representation can make a big difference.

No, Social Security does not require advocates to be attorneys.  Everyone at Disability Advocates has worked in this field for over 15 years and has a proven successful track record.