Why You Need a Lawyer

Improve your chances of approval with expert guidance

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Helping You Navigate the SSDI & SSI Process With Confidence

If you’re unable to work due to a disability, illness, or serious medical condition, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These programs exist to help people like you, but the process of applying for them can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and frustrating.

Benefits of Hiring a Disability Lawyer

Here’s why working with an attorney at the Law Office of Ms. McIntosh can significantly increase your chances of success:

  • Accurate and thorough filing: We ensure every form and question is completed properly to prevent unnecessary denials.
  • Comprehensive evidence gathering: We know what the SSA requires — and we make sure your medical records, tests, and documentation meet their standards.
  • Appeals handled efficiently: If you’re denied, we’ll take immediate action to file your appeal and strengthen your case.
  • No upfront fees: My fee is 25% of your past-due benefits by regulation, and only if you win.
  • No charge for medical records in Texas: Under Texas Health & Safety Code §161.202(a)(3)-(4), healthcare providers and facilities cannot charge you or your attorney for medical records requested to support a disability benefits claim or appeal.

This means there should be no cost to obtain your medical records when applying for SSDI or SSI.

Comprehensive Application Process Management

At the Law Office of Ms. McIntosh, I understand that the process can feel confusing and intimidating. Many claimants face two common challenges when applying:

  • They become overwhelmed by the complex application process and delay applying, or
  • They apply on their own but fail to include enough evidence, resulting in a denial.
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Why You Should Have a Lawyer Handle Your Disability Claim

While you’re not legally required to have a lawyer to file for SSDI or SSI, having professional guidance ensures your claim is complete, accurate, and supported by proper documentation. A knowledgeable attorney understands how to build a strong case that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict standards for proof of disability. We:

  • Complete and file your application at no charge to you
  • Ensure every question is answered clearly and correctly
  • Gather and submit the right medical evidence to support your claim
  • Represent you through appeals if your application is denied
  • Charge no fees unless you win your case

Understanding the Disability Benefits Process

Step 1: Application & Documentation Gathering

When you work with me, I handle your application from start to finish, I will make sure every form is completed accurately including key details. 

Why does this matter?

  • For SSDI, you may qualify for up to 12 months of retroactive pay before your filing date if you were already disabled.
  • For SSI, there is no retroactive pay, so it’s important to file as soon as possible.

I will also help you gather strong medical evidence, including physician reports, test results, and expert opinions, to prove that your condition meets the legal definition of disability under SSA rules.

Step 2: State Disability Determination

Once your application is submitted, it first goes to a local SSA field office, which reviews your nonmedical eligibility factors, such as:

  • Age
  • Employment and Social Security coverage
  • Marital status
  • Citizenship and residency

For SSI claims, the SSA also reviews:

  • Income and financial resources
  • Living arrangements

After this review, your claim is sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS), a state-level agency that evaluates the medical evidence.

If the evidence provided is incomplete, the DDS may schedule a consultative examination (CE) to gather additional medical information. An attorney can help ensure this step goes smoothly and that all necessary documentation is provided upfront, minimizing delays and reducing the chance of denial.

Step 3: Initial Determination

After the DDS review, your claim is returned to the SSA field office for a final decision.

You will receive one of two outcomes:

  • Approval: The SSA will compute your benefit amount and begin payments.
  • Denial: You’ll be notified that your claim was not approved and informed of your right to appeal.

Unfortunately, most first-time applicants are denied. That’s where having an attorney becomes invaluable.

Step 4: Request for Hearing or Appeal (If Denied)

If your initial claim is denied, don’t give up, you have the right to appeal. During the appeal:

  • A new team at DDS will review your case (this is called a reconsideration determination)
  • If denied again, you may request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) at the Office of Hearing Operations (OHO)

During the hearing, you can present new medical evidence, testimony, or expert opinions. An experienced disability attorney can prepare your case, represent you before the judge, and advocate effectively on your behalf.

I am Here to Help You Every Step of the Way

Navigating disability benefits can be confusing, but my expertise helps you move forward with clarity and confidence. Reach out for trusted legal support.

Schedule an Initial Free Consultation