Michigan SSDI Lawyer: Help With Your Social Security Disability Insurance Claim
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays monthly benefits to people who have worked, paid Social Security taxes, and can no longer work because of a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months. The Law Office of Rachel M. Pinch helps people throughout Michigan apply for SSDI, appeal denials, and prepare for hearings. There is no attorney fee unless you win.
Call (248) 244-3900 or request a free consultation.
Who qualifies for SSDI?
Social Security generally looks for four things when deciding an SSDI claim:
A physical or mental condition that prevents you from working full time
A condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Earnings below Social Security's "substantial gainful activity" limit
Enough work credits. Most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the 10 years before becoming disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer.
There is no single list of approved conditions. What matters is how your condition limits your ability to work. Back and joint problems, chronic pain, neurological conditions, autoimmune disorders, and mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD are all common in the claims we handle. You can check your work credits by creating an account at SSA.gov, or our office can help you review them.
What SSDI benefits include
Monthly payments based on your past earnings record
Back pay for months you were disabled before approval, after a 5-month waiting period
Medicare coverage, which generally begins after 24 months of SSDI entitlement
Benefits for certain family members, such as minor children, in some cases
How we help with your SSDI claim
We focus only on Social Security Disability and SSI claims. When you work with our office, we:
Help you complete your application thoroughly and accurately from the start
Keep Social Security updated on your medical treatment and changes in your condition
Follow up on your claim regularly so it keeps moving
File appeals within the 60-day deadline if your claim is denied
Prepare you for your hearing and attend it with you if one is needed
We work with clients all over Michigan by phone, so you never have to travel to our office in Berkley. In-person meetings are available by appointment.
How long does an SSDI claim take?
Every claim is different, but in our experience an initial application takes about 6 to 8 months, reconsideration takes about 4 to 6 months, and a hearing before a judge takes about 6 months more. Many claims are denied at the first two levels, so appeals are often part of the process. See how we handle denied claims.
What does an SSDI lawyer cost?
Nothing up front. Our fee is contingency based: 25% of your past-due benefits (back pay), capped at the maximum set by the Social Security Administration, currently $9,200. Social Security pays the fee directly out of your back pay, and there is no attorney fee if we do not win your case.
SSDI questions we hear often
Can I get SSDI and SSI at the same time?
Yes, in some cases. If your SSDI payment is low and you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for both programs. Learn more about SSI.
Can I work while my SSDI claim is pending?
Limited work may be allowed, but earning above Social Security's substantial gainful activity limit can lead to a denial. Talk with us before you take on any work during your claim.
Do I have to come to your office?
No. Our office is set up to handle your claim by phone from anywhere in Michigan. If you prefer to meet in person, call to schedule an appointment at our Berkley office.
What if my SSDI claim was already denied?
You generally have 60 days from the date you receive the denial notice to appeal. Do not wait. Learn about appealing a denial or call us today.
Talk with a Michigan SSDI lawyer today
Call (248) 244-3900 or book a free consultation. You can also learn how we help at every stage, read our disability claim FAQs, or meet Rachel Pinch.