San Diego Social Security Disability lawyer explains SSDI and SSI

I have helped thousands of injured California workers regain financial stability with a Social Security disability award.

I understand that when you are applying for Social Security disability benefits you are hurt, worried, and probably frustrated. This is a difficult time in your life, and I am here to help you through. You have come to the right place.

Look around on this website and you will find lots of information about the Social Security Administration and the disability claim process.

What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

Sometimes one of the first things my San Diego Social Security Disability clients ask is “What is the difference between these two programs?” The Social Security Administration is a huge bureaucracy with a lot of different programs. It can be very confusing for people who don’t work in this area.

SSI stands for “Supplemental Security Income.” This is a needs-based program that provides help to disabled people who have no work record or history for the last five years and who meet certain asset and income limitations.

SSDI stands for “Social Security Disability Insurance.” This Social Security program pays disabled people who have worked and paid Social Security payroll tax during a required time span before they became disabled.

What mistakes do some people make in applying for their Social Security disability benefits?

In my experience helping San Diego and other California Social Security Disability applicants I have seen a lot of mistakes that people have made. Here are some of them:

  • Starting the claim before talking to a lawyer. It makes a difference to start the claim on the right foot.
  • Not filing the claim soon enough. Sometimes months of eligibility are lost.
  • Not appealing a denial or missing an appeal deadline. Most applications are denied the first time through; it is very important to appeal.
  • Not getting all the medical evidence into the Social Security Administration file.
  • Not understanding that depression is part of the illness.
  • Thinking that they cannot afford a lawyer. Fees are paid only if you get a disability award.

A San Diego Social Security Disability lawyer is here to help
If you do not already have a California disability attorney and would like me to evaluate your claim, give me a brief description of your claim using the form to right, and I will respond promptly.

Seriously injured workers can receive Social Security disability benefits in addition to their workers’ compensation benefits. Disabled military soldiers receiving monthly VA disability checks often qualify for monthly Social Security disability benefits in addition to their VA disability benefits. Everyone knows someone who is disabled. Give us a call or learn more at www.WorkInjury-SanDiego.com or www.DavidKeplerLaw.com.

Stewart Atcheson
San Diego Social Security lawyer

E-mail

Atcheson & Kepler
1901 First Avenue, Suite 184
San Diego, CA 92101