Ronald J. Schafer, Esq. Gallo & Gallo Co., LPA · 55 Public Square, Suite 2222, Cleveland, Ohio 44113 Social Security Disability
Free consultation: 216-990-7951

Social Security Disability Help in Ohio

Can't work because of a medical condition? Talk to a Social Security disability attorney.

Applications and appeals involve strict deadlines and detailed medical paperwork, and many first-time applications are denied. Call for a free consultation. Attorney fees in Social Security cases are set by federal law and approved by Social Security.

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How a Social Security disability claim moves forward

Most claims follow the same path. Knowing the stages, and the deadline at each one, is half the battle.

1. Application

You apply for SSDI, SSI, or both, with your work history and medical records. Complete, consistent medical evidence matters from day one.

2. Initial decision

Social Security makes a first decision, often after months. Many first-time applications are denied.

3. Reconsideration

If denied, you can ask for a fresh review. The deadline to appeal is generally 60 days from the date you receive the notice.

4. Hearing

You can request a hearing before an administrative law judge, where you can testify and your attorney can present your case.

5. Further appeals

If the judge denies the claim, you can ask the Appeals Council to review it, and then go to federal court.

Help at every stage

An attorney can gather records, work with your treating doctors on supporting statements, meet deadlines, and prepare you for the hearing.

SSDI and SSI: what is the difference?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. Some people qualify for both. Which one applies depends on your work history and finances.

Hurt at work and unable to work?

Workers’ compensation and Social Security disability are separate programs with separate rules, and a workers’ compensation payment or settlement can affect Social Security benefits. If you have both a work injury and a disability claim, talk to an attorney before you sign a settlement.

See our workers’ compensation pages

Common questions

How does Social Security decide whether I am disabled?

Generally, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that keeps you from doing substantial work and that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or to result in death.

My application was denied. What now?

Do not start over without talking to someone. A denial can usually be appealed, but the deadline is short, generally 60 days from receiving the notice.

How much does a disability attorney cost?

Attorney fees in Social Security disability cases are set by federal law and must be approved by Social Security. Generally you owe no attorney fee unless benefits are won. Ask about case costs in your first call.

See all disability questions →

Attorney Ronald J. Schafer

Talk with Ronald J. Schafer

Ronald J. Schafer practices at Gallo & Gallo Co., LPA in downtown Cleveland and was admitted to the Ohio bar in 2012.

Call to talk through where your claim stands and what your next deadline is. The first conversation is free.

Call (216) 990-7951

Don't let a deadline decide your claim.

Call Ronald J. Schafer at Gallo & Gallo for a free consultation.

Call (216) 990-7951