SSDI & SSI Representation
How We Help You Win Disability Benefits
Whether you're applying for the first time or fighting a denial, Bonville & Howard has guided Tri-State Area families through the Social Security system for over 80 years.
Two Programs. One Dedicated Team.
Social Security offers two disability programs — SSDI and SSI — and many applicants qualify for one or both. The rules are complex, the paperwork is demanding, and most first-time applications are denied. That's where we come in.
Our attorneys handle every stage of the process, from the initial application through federal court if necessary. You pay nothing unless we win.
SSDI vs. SSI: What's the Difference?
Both programs pay monthly benefits to people with qualifying disabilities, but they have different eligibility rules.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is based on your work history. If you've paid Social Security taxes long enough and become disabled, you may qualify regardless of your income or assets.
- Based on your work and tax contribution history
- No income or asset limits
- Includes Medicare coverage after 24 months
- Benefit amount tied to your earnings record
- Family members may also qualify for benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Work history is not required.
- Based on financial need, not work history
- Available to adults and children with disabilities
- Income and asset limits apply
- Includes Medicaid coverage in most states
- Can be combined with SSDI in some cases
Do You Qualify?
Social Security uses a strict five-step evaluation process to determine disability. We help you build the strongest possible case at every step.
- 01
Are you working?
If you're earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, you generally won't qualify. We help you understand how part-time or limited work affects your claim.
- 02
Is your condition severe?
Your impairment must significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities. We gather the medical evidence needed to establish severity.
- 03
Is it on the Listing of Impairments?
SSA maintains a list of conditions that automatically qualify. We review whether your condition meets or equals a listed impairment.
- 04
Can you do your past work?
If your condition prevents you from returning to your previous job, SSA moves to the next step. We document your work history and functional limitations carefully.
- 05
Can you do any other work?
SSA considers your age, education, and skills. If no other work exists that you can perform, you qualify. We present vocational evidence to support your case.
Denied? Don't Give Up.
Most successful claims are won at the hearing level, where you appear before an Administrative Law Judge. Our attorneys have represented hundreds of clients at ALJ hearings and know exactly what it takes to win.
If your claim has been denied, you have strict deadlines to appeal. Contact us immediately — missing a deadline can mean starting over from scratch.
Reconsideration
A fresh review of your initial denial by a different SSA examiner. We prepare a stronger submission with updated medical evidence.
ALJ Hearing
An in-person or video hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is where most cases are won. We prepare you thoroughly and argue your case.
Appeals Council
If the ALJ denies your claim, we can request review by the SSA Appeals Council, citing legal errors or overlooked evidence.
Federal Court
As a last resort, we can file suit in U.S. District Court to challenge an unjust denial. Few firms take cases this far — we do.
Hearing Representation
Having an attorney at your ALJ hearing dramatically increases your chances of approval.
Studies show that claimants represented by an attorney at their hearing are approved at significantly higher rates than those who appear alone. Our attorneys know the judges, understand the medical evidence standards, and know how to present your case effectively.
We handle all pre-hearing preparation — gathering updated medical records, obtaining opinions from your treating physicians, preparing you for testimony, and cross-examining vocational and medical experts called by SSA.
- Pre-hearing case review and strategy
- Medical records gathering and analysis
- Treating physician opinion letters
- Client testimony preparation
- Cross-examination of SSA experts
- Post-hearing briefs when needed
Ready to Find Out If You Qualify?
Our free evaluation takes about three minutes. A member of our team will call you back to discuss your options — no obligation, no fee unless we win.