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Have Questions About Qualifying for SSD & SSI?

Our Sacramento Disability Lawyers Can Determine if You Are Eligible for Social Security Benefits

When people come to our law offices at Smolich and Smolich, one of the first questions they often ask is "Am I eligible for Social Security benefits?" We can answer these questions and, whether you are preparing to file an initial application or have already submitted one and have been denied, we can help you work towards obtaining the benefits you need.

Our Sacramento Social Security Disability attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and resources to assist you from the initial application through the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing and Appeals Council. Contact Smolich and Smolich today to learn more.

Our firm can help you:

  • Determine if you are eligible to receive SSD or SSI benefits, or both
  • Properly prepare and file your initial application
  • Fight a denied application through the appeals process

To learn more about whether you're eligible for SSD or SSI benefits, let our social security disability attorney in Sacramento evaluate your case. Dial (916) 571-0400 to schedule a free consultation to learn more. 

What’s the Difference Between SSD & SSDI?

Understanding the difference between SSI and SSDI is important when exploring disability benefits, as each program has its own eligibility requirements and purpose. While both provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, they are designed for different situations.

The primary difference between the two is how people qualify for the programs.

  • SSI qualifications: These are determined based on need-based assistance. This includes limited income, resources, and your age and disability.
  • SSDI qualifications: These are determined based on work credits that contributed to Social Security taxes.

Choosing the right program depends on your financial situation and work background. In some cases, individuals may even qualify for both. Speaking with our knowledgeable Social Security Disability lawyer in Sacramento can help you determine which benefits you may be eligible for and how to apply.

Eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) Benefits in CA

The first eligibility criterion for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is, of course, that you worked, contributed Social Security taxes, and earned sufficient credits to be insured. The second criterion is proving that you are disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act. Medical documentation and other evidence must prove your disability. Without quality legal assistance, many initial applications are denied because the disability is not clearly presented.

Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in CA

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available to disabled individuals and those aged 65 or older. The eligibility requirements are more strict than SSD, and often times, the benefits are not as substantial. To qualify for SSI, you must meet both medical and non-medical rules. Under the non-medical rules, whether or not you can get SSI depends on your income and resources (the things you own). However, there is no requirement that sufficient credits be earned from your work history. Of course, under the medical rules, the disability must still be proven.

Let our Sacramento Social Security Disability lawyers help you by calling us today at (916) 571-0400. We offer free initial consultations for all new clients.

Commonly Asked Questions

Are SSD or SSI Lawyers Necessary to Hire?

Hiring an SSD or SSI attorney in Sacramento is not required, but it can be very helpful. An experienced lawyer can assist with completing applications, gathering medical evidence, meeting deadlines, and handling appeals if your claim is denied, which may improve your chances of approval.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for SSD or SSI?

The approval process can take several months, and in some cases longer if an appeal is needed. Initial decisions typically take six to eight months, while hearings and appeals may extend the timeline to a year or more.

What If My SSD or SSI Claim Is Denied?

A denial does not mean the end of your claim. You have the right to appeal, and many applicants are approved during the appeals process. Working with an attorney can help strengthen your case by addressing the reasons for denial and submitting additional supporting evidence.

Contact Smolich and Smolich Today!

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  • "very empathic"
    I would totally still be lost in the red tape of the social security system without the help of my attorney Sarah Greer and my case manager Sarah Cummings. You ladies rock!! Thank you so much for all your help getting my award. I would personally recommend this law firm to anyone needing help with their claim.
    Martha DelValle
    Sacramento, CA
  • "“You don’t have to worry with Smolich by your side”"
    I want to thank Smolich and Smolich for helping me get my Social Security Disability. The continued support I received from them from beginning to the end help me to stay calm thru the whole process. I couldn’t have done it without them. Marlena Jones, thank you for being so kind when I call the office with questions. I appreciate you. YOU GUYS ARE SO AWESOME !!!!!
    Modesto, CA
  • "Fantastic and Wonderful"
    Sarah Greer and Sam Eldaly from Smolich & Smolich are a fabulous team to work with. I had to apply for SSDI due to my Parkinsons and they handled it not only a professionals but as if they were sitting across the table from me in person the entire time. They are a dynamite team! I highly recommend them to anyone for a fantastic and timely managed experience. Thank you Smolich & Smolich!
    Barbara Light
    Citrus Heights, CA
  • "I am so happy to have such knowledgeable and helpful people to help during this difficult time. Sam was super responsive and always willing to answer questions, regardless how big or small."
    My circumstances were a bit unusual - my husband applied for Social Security Disability, but unfortunately passed away during the review process. Sam and Sarah worked diligently to see the case through to the end, and provide our family the benefits we were owed. A special thank you to Sam, he was always very responsive, willing to go above and beyond, and willing to answer questions whether big or small. Thank you, Smolich and Smolich!
    Smolich and Smolich is so helpful!
    Sacramento, CA
  • "Thank you Sarah and team!"
    I needed to apply for disability and knew nothing about how to go about it. Sarah called me and explained the process and assured me everything would be okay. Her staff went online to fill out my application. She and Marlena kept me updated every step of the way. Within a short time a decision was made in my favor. I cannot tell you how many sleepless nights I had prior to meeting with the team. I would recommend them to anyone who needs help in this area. Thank you so much for all your hard work. Without you I could have never done this.
    Andrea
    Stockton, CA
  • "You were so proactive and informative, you really did take away so much of my stress during the whole process."
    I sincerely apologize for the delay! I truly thought I had already sent this off to almost 3 months ago! Thank goodness I had someone helping me clean and organize the apartment last week. She found your letter behind my bookcase. I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank you for your support and dedication throughout my case. You were a true blessing to me. You were so proactive and informative, you really did take away so much of my stress during the whole process. Just the fact that you returned a call so promptly was a very big deal to me. It let me know that I mattered to you, Sarah, and the firm. Thanks to the two of you I am finally settled in my own apartment and my mom was able to finally retire. So again, thank you from the depths of my heart for everything that you personally and your firm have done for me. You were true angels in my tie of need.
    Mandie O'Malley