Applying for SSDI benefits can be a long process. The Oklahoma City disability lawyers at Colbert Cooper Hill are your Wolf Pack™, and we’ve got your back. Whether you’re in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Ardmore, or anywhere in Oklahoma, we will treat you like a member of our own pack and be here to answer all of your disability benefits questions. Call us today at (405) 218-9200 to get started with a free case review.
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Do You Need Social Security Disability Benefits?
The Wolf Pack™ is here to help you through the process of filing for Social Security Disability benefits!
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Your Oklahoma City Disability Lawyers
Call Us. We’ll Take It from There.
Let our disability attorneys handle the hard part so you can focus on living your life while we fight for the financial assistance you deserve.
We’re Your Trusted Guide.
We’ll keep you updated on your application. Touching base is always just a phone call away. We will be with you every step of the way, no matter how long your case takes.
No Upfront Costs. Really.
Our attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis. That means you pay us only if you qualify for benefits. It costs you nothing to have us start your disability benefits claim.
Social Security Disability Benefits are Notoriously Complex
Living with a mental or physical disability often leaves you with little time for anything else. Maybe you’ve been putting off filing for SSDI because you don’t know where to start. Or, maybe you’re not sure if you’re “disabled” by the Social Security Administration’s standards. Whatever your questions are, we’re here to answer them.
And when you work with us, you’re not just hiring a social security disability attorney — you’re joining our Wolf Pack™. We’re devoted to your case and will pursue any disability benefits you may be entitled to with the aggression and fierceness only a wolf can.
Are you ready to speak with an Oklahoma City Disability Lawyer?
From filing your disability claim to appealing a denial, our disability lawyers are ready to help you fight for the financial assistance you’re owed.
Do I Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules for qualifying for SSDI benefits. In most cases, you must meet the following criteria:
Your disability — which can be a physical or mental impairment — must prevent you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity.” This is the language the SSA uses when they talk about earning money from a job. In order to qualify, your disability:
- Prevents you from doing the work you were able to do before.
- Inhibits you from doing other kinds of work due to your condition.
- Must have lasted or is expected to last at least 12 continuous months, or is expected to result in death.
You must have worked at a job that contributed to Social Security.
- “Work Credits” are credits you receive when a portion of your taxes goes to the SSA through your employment. In order to receive SSDI, you must have first accumulated enough Work Credits.
- The amount of credits you need in order to qualify for SSDI is dependent on your age.
Applying for Disability Benefits? The Wolf Pack™ Can Help!
If you’re struggling with your application or appeal for Social Security disability benefits, the Wolf Pack™ is here for you. Contact us to share your story!
How Can a Lawyer Help?
The Social Security disability process can be challenging to navigate, and you may be dealing with limitations caused by your disability. With so much stacked against you, you could be at a disadvantage that affects your ability to receive the benefits you need. In the chance that you are initially denied your benefits, you will need the support of someone who knows how to apply for an appeal and build your strongest possible case to give you your best chance at approval.
Our experienced Oklahoma City disability lawyers will take care of those challenges for you. Our team can compile all the evidence to build your strongest case, guide you through the paperwork and process, and make sure you have the best chance at the maximum possible compensation. Your lawyer will also help you keep up with important deadlines and update you every step of the way. Let us be your loyal advocates in this fight for the benefits you deserve. Get The Wolf Pack™ on your side today!
What Comes Next?
Online Case Review
All you have to do is call or fill out the online form to share your story with The Wolf Pack.™ Our experienced team of attorneys is here to listen and help you navigate your best course of action. If you have a case, we’ll get right to work for you.
Compiling Evidence
Your lawyer will compile all the documentation you need, such as the doctor’s testimonies and medical records, to build the strongest case possible.
Court and Appeals
If your disability claim is rejected at first, your lawyer will handle all the paperwork and represent you before the court so you have your best chance at seeking your benefits.
Benefits
The Social Security disability claims process can take time, but your lawyer will keep you updated every step of the way. If your claim is approved, we will get to work immediately so you receive your benefits as soon as possible.
Social Security Disability FAQs
Why Should I Hire an Oklahoma City Disability Attorney?
While you are allowed to apply for disability benefits on your own, the process is complex, technical, and highly detail-oriented. Many claims are denied not because the person isn’t disabled, but because the application is incomplete, inconsistent, or missing critical medical evidence.
A disability attorney can help by:
- Ensuring all paperwork is complete and accurate
- Gathering and organizing medical records and supporting evidence
- Communicating with the Social Security Administration (SSA) on your behalf
- Preparing you for hearings and questioning by an administrative law judge
- Identifying errors that could lead to denial or delay
At Colbert Cooper Hill, there are no upfront costs for disability representation. Our disability attorneys work on a contingency basis and are paid only if your claim is approved, consistent with SSA fee guidelines. If you are not approved, you owe nothing.
I Filed My Disability Claim on My Own and Was Denied. Can You Still Help Me?
Yes. Many people are denied disability benefits on their first attempt. In fact, initial denial rates for SSDI claims are high nationwide.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Missing or incomplete medical records
- Failure to meet SSA’s strict definition of disability
- Inconsistent information in the application
- Lack of detailed medical opinions from treating physicians
If your claim was denied, you may still be eligible for benefits through the appeals process. Our attorneys can review your denial, identify what went wrong, file your appeal, and build a stronger case moving forward.
BLOG: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim
What Is the Deadline to Appeal a Denied Disability Claim?
You generally have 60 days from the date you receive your denial notice to file an appeal with the SSA.
Missing this deadline can force you to start over entirely, potentially costing you months or even years of benefits. That’s why it’s critical to act quickly after a denial.
BLOG: What Are Your Chances of Winning Your Social Security Disability Appeal?
How Long Can I Receive Disability Benefits?
If you continue to meet the SSA’s definition of disability and remain unable to engage in substantial gainful activity, SSDI benefits may continue long-term.
Benefits may stop or be reduced if:
- You return to work at a level considered substantial gainful activity
- Your medical condition improves
- You no longer meet eligibility requirements
When you reach full retirement age, your SSDI benefits automatically convert to Social Security retirement benefits. The payment amount generally stays the same.
Can I Work While Receiving SSDI Benefits?
In general, SSDI recipients cannot earn more than the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit and continue receiving benefits. The SGA amount is adjusted periodically.
However, the SSA does allow certain exceptions, including:
- Trial Work Periods
- Ticket to Work programs
- Limited or part-time work under specific thresholds
Because these rules are complex and mistakes can jeopardize benefits, it’s important to speak with your Oklahoma City disability attorney before attempting to return to work.
What’s the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
Although they are both disability programs, SSDI and SSI are very different.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):
- Based on your work history and payroll taxes
- Benefit amount depends on prior earnings
- Requires sufficient work credits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
- Based on financial need
- Funded by general tax revenue
- Available to individuals with limited income and resources
- Does not require work history
Some people may qualify for both programs, depending on their circumstances.
If I Receive Disability Benefits and Reach Retirement Age, Will My Payments Increase?
No. When you reach full retirement age, SSDI benefits convert to retirement benefits, but the monthly payment amount typically remains the same.
In certain limited circumstances—such as early retirement combined with disability—there may be additional considerations. Your Oklahoma City disability attorney can review your specific benefit situation to ensure there are no unexpected changes.
BLOG: Can I Collect Both Social Security Retirement and Social Security Disability Benefits in Oklahoma?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision on a Disability Application?
Processing times vary depending on:
- The type and severity of your disability
- How quickly medical records are submitted
- SSA backlogs and case volume
- Whether your claim proceeds to appeal or hearing
Initial decisions can take several months. Appeals and hearings can take significantly longer.
Having an attorney helps ensure your case is organized, properly supported, and not delayed by avoidable errors or missing documentation.
What Medical Conditions Qualify for Disability Benefits?
The SSA maintains a list of impairments—often called the Blue Book —that outlines medical conditions that may qualify for disability benefits.
However, you do not need to have a condition listed to qualify. You may still be eligible if your condition prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Do I Need Medical Evidence to Win a Disability Claim?
Yes. Medical evidence is the foundation of any disability claim.
This may include:
- Medical records and test results
- Physician treatment notes
- Statements from treating doctors
- Functional capacity evaluations
Our disability attorneys work to ensure your medical evidence clearly shows how your condition limits your ability to work.
What If My Condition Gets Worse After I Apply?
If your condition worsens, additional medical evidence can and should be submitted to the SSA. This may strengthen your claim or appeal.
Your Oklahoma City disability lawyer can help ensure updated records are properly submitted and considered.
Will I Have to Attend a Disability Hearing?
If your claim reaches the hearing stage, you may need to appear before an administrative law judge. This is not a criminal court proceeding, but it is still a formal process.
Your Oklahoma City disability lawyer will:
- Prepare you for the hearing
- Present evidence and arguments on your behalf
- Question vocational or medical experts
- Ensure your rights are protected
Having legal representation at a hearing significantly improves your ability to present a strong, clear case.
What Does It Cost to Hire a Disability Attorney?
Federal law limits disability attorney fees. At Colbert Cooper Hill:
- You pay no upfront fees
- Fees are capped by SSA regulations
- We only get paid if your claim is approved
This allows you to pursue benefits without financial risk.