Social Security Disability Benefits. Guidance You Can Trust.
Applying for disability benefits or appealing a denial? Taylor & Associates helps Arizonans navigate SSDI and SSI claims with clarity, care, and experienced legal representation.
You deserve support while you focus on your health.
Living with a serious medical condition can make everyday life—and the disability benefits process—more difficult.
The Social Security Administration administers two important disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Each has different eligibility rules and application requirements.
Taylor & Associates helps clients understand their options, organize medical documentation, complete applications, and pursue appeals when claims are denied.
Discuss your case with our team →
Legal support at every stage of your disability claim.
From your first application to a hearing or appeal, our team helps you understand what comes next.
Initial SSDI & SSI Claims
Understand eligibility, prepare forms, and organize the information needed for a complete application.
Medical Evidence
Identify relevant treatment records and supporting documentation for your disability claim.
Denied Claims & Appeals
Review a denial and understand the available appeal options and applicable deadlines.
Hearing Preparation
Prepare for the questions, records, and procedures involved in an administrative hearing.
Benefit Questions
Get guidance on how SSDI, SSI, work activity, and other circumstances may affect your claim.
Ongoing Communication
Receive practical guidance as your case progresses, without navigating the process alone.
Two programs. Different eligibility rules.
Understanding which program may apply to your circumstances is an important first step. Eligibility depends on the Social Security Administration's rules and your individual situation.
- SSDI: Generally based on qualifying work history and Social Security-covered earnings, along with disability requirements.
- SSI: Generally based on disability or age and financial eligibility requirements.
- Both programs: May require medical evidence and careful attention to deadlines and ongoing reporting obligations.
Program requirements and work-related earnings thresholds can change. Check current Social Security Administration rules for your specific situation.
Personal attention. Experienced advocacy.
For more than 50 years, Taylor & Associates has helped people facing difficult disability and workers' compensation issues.
We focus on understanding your circumstances, explaining your options, and helping you move through the process with confidence.
Talk With Our Team →What happens when you seek disability benefits?
Case Review
Discuss your condition, work history, and current application or appeal status.
Build Your File
Organize application details and relevant medical and supporting records.
File or Appeal
Submit the appropriate materials and track required deadlines.
Prepare for Next Steps
Get guidance through requests for information, hearings, or decisions.
Answers to common disability questions.
These answers are general information, not individualized legal advice. Your circumstances and current SSA rules determine the next steps.
Ask us about your case →What qualifies someone for Social Security Disability benefits?
Generally, Social Security evaluates whether a medically determinable condition prevents substantial gainful activity and meets applicable duration and other program requirements. SSDI and SSI have additional, different eligibility rules.
How do I apply for SSDI or SSI?
Applications can generally be started through the Social Security Administration, by phone, or through a local office, depending on the benefit. Our team can help you prepare supporting information and understand the process.
Why are disability claims denied?
Common issues include insufficient medical evidence, incomplete information, and not meeting medical or non-medical eligibility requirements. The specific reason should be stated in your decision notice.
What if my disability claim was denied?
You may have appeal options, but deadlines apply. Review the notice promptly and contact our team to discuss the appropriate next step.
How long does a disability decision take?
Processing times vary based on the type of claim, medical evidence, agency workload, and whether an appeal or hearing is needed. Some cases take months or longer.
Can I work while receiving disability benefits?
Work and earnings can affect SSDI or SSI differently. Social Security has specific work incentive and reporting rules, and thresholds may change over time. Speak with a qualified professional before relying on a particular earnings amount.
How is my SSDI benefit amount determined?
SSDI payments generally depend on your covered earnings record rather than how severe your condition is. SSI payment amounts depend on applicable program and financial rules.
Can substance use affect a disability determination?
The SSA may consider whether drug addiction or alcoholism is material to a disability determination under its rules. These cases require an individualized review of medical evidence.
Can an urgent financial or medical situation affect hearing priority?
In some circumstances, Social Security may consider a dire-need request, such as a serious lack of food, shelter, or essential medical care. Priority is not guaranteed and supporting details may be needed.
What are Disabled Adult Child benefits?
Certain adults whose disability began before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent's Social Security earnings record if the applicable requirements are met. Special rules can apply to marriage and work activity.
Do I need a lawyer to apply?
Representation is not required for every application, but legal guidance can help with evidence, paperwork, appeal deadlines, and hearing preparation—especially after a denial.
Don't navigate your disability claim alone.
Speak with Taylor & Associates about your SSDI or SSI application, denial, or appeal.