Your Trusted Team of Disability Attorneys
When your SSDI application is denied, the thought of filing an appeal can be both disheartening and intimidating. Fortunately, our social security disability lawyers don’t back down from a struggle. Our attorneys will use their knowledge and advocacy skills to take on the notoriously complex SSI and SSDI appeals process, ease your frustrations, and provide you with compassionate and effective legal representation. You deserve to have access to disability benefits, and our team at Wettermark Keith will stand by your side until your future is secured.
20,000+ Denials Overturned
Our team of skilled disability lawyers have helped over 20,000 people appeal their denial and secure benefits with back pay.
5,000+ ALJ Hearings
When appeals are denied, we readily go to court to fight for your benefits. WK attorneys have attended over 5,000 Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings.
300+ 5-Star Reviews
Over the years our attorneys have built a strong reputation for excellence. With over 300 5-star reviews, you can rest assured knowing your case is in the right hands.
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Nations Top 100 Disability Law Firms
When facing the daunting challenge of a denied Social Security disability claim, it’s crucial to choose a law firm that not only understands the complexities of the system but also has a proven track record of advocating for clients’ rights. At Wettermark Keith, a distinguished Top 100 Social Security Disability Law Firm, our lawyers specialize in navigating the intricate pathways of Social Security benefits and in turning denied claims into approved ones.
No Benefits, No
Fee - Guarantee
Your benefits shouldn’t come with a price tag attached. Too many people avoid filing an appeal, out of a fear that they won’t be able to afford the professional support they need. We’re in the business of doing what’s fair and right. So, when we opened our doors, we knew that we wanted to create a disability law firm that was equitable and accessible to anyone, no matter your income. That’s why we’ve implemented our “no recovery, no fee” guarantee. That means that unless you win your case, you won’t pay us a single cent.
Helping Secure Your Disability Benefits
A denial can be discouraging, but it doesn’t mean your case is over. We help people move past denied claims and win the benefits they’re entitled to. Our team works with you to correct mistakes, strengthen your case, and guide it through the appeals process. With experienced support on your side, your chances of approval go up—along with your peace of mind.
Clarifying the Denial
We review your denial in detail to pinpoint exactly what went wrong—then develop a clear, personalized strategy to fix it and move your claim forward.
Building a Stronger Case for Your Appeal
Our team is here to help gather critical medical records, fill gaps in your documentation, and present stronger evidence to prove your eligibility for benefits. This way you can relax knowing we are handling all of the details of your case.
Securing Your SSI & SSDI Benefits
From paperwork to hearings, we handle every step of the appeal with one goal: getting your benefits approved and helping you move forward with financial stability.
Securing Benefits in All 50 States
We support clients in all 50 states facing Social Security benefits denials. No matter where you’re located, our team at Wettermark Keith is here to guide you through the appeals process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Awarded ACRD Top 100 Disability Law Firm
Our team is proud to be officially recognized by the ACRD as one of the nations top 100 disability law firms. This honor reflects our unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of disabled individuals, ensuring they receive the support, respect, and legal protections they deserve.
Our Process
We make the appeals process as clear and straightforward as possible. From the moment you contact us, our focus is on understanding your situation, strengthening your case, and getting your benefits approved. Every step is handled with care, experience, and a deep commitment to securing the outcome you deserve.
Consultation
We start by listening. During your intake, we review your denial, ask the right questions, and identify the best path forward. You’ll get clear answers and a plan tailored to your case.
File Appeal
Next, we collect all necessary medical records, work history, and supporting documentation. Then we prepare and file a strong appeal designed specifically to address the reasons for your initial denial.
Secure Benefits
From following up with the Social Security Administration to representing you at hearings, we handle everything. Our goal is simple: to get your disability benefits approved as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Hear from Our Clients
Hear from the people who’ve been where you are. Our clients share what it was like to work with our team—how we listened, guided them through the process, and helped secure the benefits they needed. Their experiences speak to the care and commitment we bring to every case.
Enjoy Your Disability Benefits
Don’t let a disability benefits denial ruin your day. Our team of experienced disability attorneys are here to handle your appeal so you rest easy knowing your disability benefits are secured.
SSI vs SSDI Benefits
The Social Security Disability (SSD) program is a federal initiative designed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a long-term disability or impairment. This program encompasses two primary categories of disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), each with distinct qualifications and requirements.
SSI Benefits
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program offers financial support to individuals with limited financial means and assets who are blind, disabled, or aged 65 and older. This program, also called Title XVI, is funded by general taxes. While SSI benefit amounts vary by state, their primary purpose is to help recipients meet basic needs – including food, shelter, and clothing.
Unlike SSDI, qualification for SSI benefits relies primarily on financial need. To be eligible for SSI, applicants must fulfill the strict medical and financial requirements specified on the SSA website. As with SSDI, an applicant’s disabling condition should be severe enough to last at least a year or result in death, and it must hinder their ability to engage in SGA. Furthermore, for an applicant to be considered for SSI disability benefits, their income and financial resources must not exceed a specified limit.
SSDI Benefits
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provides monthly financial aid to individuals with long-term disabilities to alleviate the lost wages and other financial burdens caused by their condition. The SSDI program, also known as Title II, is funded by the FICA tax, collected from the payroll of American employees and employers. The monthly SSDI benefit amount a disability benefits recipient is entitled to is calculated based on the recipient’s previous earnings and the total Social Security taxes paid throughout their career. In some situations, family members of disabled SSDI beneficiaries may also be eligible for benefits.
The SSA employs a heavy-handed, stringent approach to evaluating SSDI applications and determining disability. For the SSA to consider an applicant disabled, the applicant must be unable to take part in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) – this refers to employment that generates income exceeding a set monthly limit. Furthermore, to qualify for these benefits applicants must meet specific work credit requirements, based on factors such as age and work experience, and they must have paid into the Social Security system. Finally, the disabling condition must be medically verified to persist for at least one year or result in death.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do I have To Appeal A Denied Social Security Claim?
If your Social Security disability claim has been denied, it’s crucial to act quickly as you have only 60 days from the date of the denial notice to file an appeal. This strict deadline is part of the Social Security Administration’s procedure, and failing to appeal within this window means you must start the entire application process over from scratch. The clock starts ticking from the date you receive the denial letter, which is presumed to be five days after the date on the letter, unless you can prove you received it later. It’s important to note that timely action is essential to preserve your rights and to avoid unnecessary delays in the processing of your claim.
To ensure a successful appeal, call a disability lawyer at Wettermark Keith today for a free consultation.
What Are the Main Criteria for Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits?
In order to be eligible for SSDI benefits, applicants must fulfill specific non-medical and medical requirements. Medically, individuals must have a physical or mental disability that prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is projected to persist for at least a year or prove fatal. Candidates are also required to take their medication and follow treatments as directed by their medical providers to qualify for benefits. Finally, applicants must have a long enough work history and must have accrued a certain number of work credits based on their age and employment history.
To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), applicants must meet certain financial requirements (as this program is need-based), be at least 65 years old, blind, or have a medical condition that prevents them from working or engaging in SGA.
Can I Receive Both SSDI and SSI Benefits At the Same Time?
An individual receiving both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits at the same time must be eligible for both. This situation is known as “concurrent benefits.” In some cases, an individual may qualify for SSDI but receive a low monthly benefit due to their limited work history. If this amount falls below the SSI income threshold, they may be eligible for SSI benefits to supplement their SSDI payments.
How Long Does it Usually Take to Get a Decision On My Disability Claim?
In 2025, the average waiting period for a decision on an initial Social Security disability claim extended to between 6 to 8 months. This duration reflects an increase from previous years and can be influenced by several factors, such as the intricacy of your case, the overall demand on the Social Security Administration, and the need for detailed medical evidence to substantiate your claim.
How does the Compassionate Allowance List affect my disability application?
If your condition is included in the Compassionate Allowance List, your disability claim can be fast-tracked, significantly reducing the waiting time for a decision. Whereas the average disability claim may take 6 to 8 months for an initial decision, claims eligible under CAL can receive a decision in just a few weeks. This expedited process ensures that individuals with the most serious disabilities receive the benefits they need more quickly. It’s important to note that while the processing time is shortened, the eligibility criteria for disability benefits remain the same. Applicants must still provide sufficient medical evidence to support their claim and meet the SSA’s definition of disability.
What Kind of Documentation Do I Need to Provide to Support My Disability Application?
The extent of your disability and how it affects your capacity to work must be clearly demonstrated in the evidence you submit when you apply for disability benefits. A disability benefits application must be supported by the following documentation:
Medical records – these should contain thorough explanations of your diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prognosis from every healthcare professional who has treated your disability. This may include prescription information, examination findings, imaging findings, surgical reports, and therapy evaluations.
Work history – the SSA requires a thorough work history before considering an applicant eligible for SSDI benefits. You must disclose all prior employers, job titles, employment dates, and job responsibilities in your application.
Education and training – include documentation of your educational background and any vocational training you have completed – this information is used to evaluate your ability to adapt to alternative work.
Personal statements – your own words and those of people you know well, including your family, friends, or coworkers, can shed light on how your disability affects your day-to-day activities and capacity for job-related duties.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms – this paperwork, filled out by your treating doctor, outline your physical and mental limitations and assist the SSA in determining your ability to work.
Our disability attorneys can assist you in gathering and presenting these documents and records in a manner that best improves your chances of a favorable outcome.
How Can I Find the Best Disability Lawyers to Handle My Case?
Choosing the right attorney to handle your disability claim is a vital step in securing the benefits you deserve. It’s essential to seek out not just a good attorney but the best attorney who specializes in Social Security disability law and has an outstanding track record. Read their client reviews and testimonials to gauge their credibility and set up a consultation to discuss their experience, approach, and communication style. Ultimately, trust your intuition – choose the lawyer who makes you feel comfortable and secure in their ability to obtain the disability benefits you need.
What Other Practice Areas Do Your lawyers for social security Handle?
Our law firm also handles cases involving premises liability law, personal injury cases, auto and trucking accidents, dog bites, nursing home abuse cases, medical malpractice, workers’ compensation, and veterans’ disability claims.
