Denied or unable to work? Find out if you qualify for disability benefits.
Answer a few questions. An independent attorney or advocate who focuses on Social Security disability claims will review your case — free.
How it works
Answer a few questions
About your work history, your condition, and where your claim stands today.
Get matched
An independent attorney or advocate who focuses on disability claims reviews your answers.
Talk it through — free
They call you to discuss your options. No obligation, and typically no fee unless you win.*
Questions? Talk to someone now.
(888) 698-2005Built for people who can't work and don't know where to start
SSDI Guidance connects people who can no longer work because of a medical condition with independent attorneys and advocates who focus on Social Security disability claims.
We're not a law firm and we don't decide your claim. We ask the questions a representative would ask first, then connect you with one who handles cases like yours — at no cost to you.
See if you qualifyWherever your claim stands, there's a next step
Pick the one that fits and we'll take you to the form.
Haven't applied yet
Most first applications are denied. Starting with help can matter.
Check my caseApplication pending
Waiting months with no answer? Learn what you can do while you wait.
Check my caseDenied — reconsideration
You generally have 60 days to appeal. Don't start over — appeal.
Check my caseDenied — hearing
A hearing before an administrative law judge is where representation matters most.
Check my caseWhy start here
A few straightforward questions, then a real conversation with someone who handles disability claims.
Check my case- 01Independent, not a referral mill — attorneys and advocates who focus on disability claims.
- 02No cost to you to get started — ever.
- 03We ask the right questions first, so nobody wastes your time.
- 04Your information goes only to the representative reviewing your case (see Marketing Partners).
Know where you stand before you call
You may qualify if
- you've worked and paid Social Security taxes in recent years
- a doctor has diagnosed a condition that keeps you from working
- you're being treated for it
- you expect to be out of work 12 months or more
Good to know
- most first applications are denied — a denial isn't the end
- appeals have deadlines, usually 60 days
- representative fees are limited and approved by the SSA
- you can apply on your own, for free, at ssa.gov
Being matched with a representative is free. If you decide to hire one, their fee is contingent, limited, and must be approved by the SSA. It is typically paid from past-due benefits, and only if you win — typically no fee unless you win, subject to SSA rules.
SSDI is based on your work history — the work credits you earned by paying Social Security taxes. SSI is need-based, for people with limited income and resources. This site focuses on SSDI; a representative can tell you which program may fit your situation.
Usually, appeal. You generally have 60 days from the date you receive a denial letter to ask for the next level of review. Reapplying restarts the clock and can cost you back pay. A representative can look at your letter and advise you.
Initial decisions usually take several months. If you appeal, reconsideration and a hearing before an administrative law judge can take considerably longer. Timing varies by state and by office.
No. You can apply on your own, for free, at ssa.gov. Many people choose a representative, especially at the hearing stage, to help gather medical evidence and keep track of deadlines.
No. SSDI Guidance is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the Social Security Administration or any government agency. You can apply directly and for free at ssa.gov.
A representative who reviewed your answers calls you to talk through your options. It helps to have ready: your work history for the last 10 or more years, the doctors and clinics that have treated you and roughly when, and any SSA letters or claim numbers. Please don't send medical records or documents to us — the representative will tell you what they need.
Find out if you qualify — it's free
A few questions about your work and your claim. No cost, no obligation.
