When a person becomes unable to work due to a severe physical or mental impairment, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Unfortunately, the process can be confusing, time-consuming, and overwhelming.
At Peña & Bromberg, PLC, we guide clients through every stage of this process — from the initial application to appeals before the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) and, when needed, U.S. District Court review.
You never pay an upfront fee. We only get paid if we win your case. By law, our fee is 25% of past-due benefits, including benefits paid to your family, capped at $7,200 (as of November 30, 2022). If your case proceeds to the Appeals Council or federal court, the same 25% rate applies with court approval.
If the Social Security Administration (SSA) has denied your claim, call us right away — the sooner you act, the stronger your case can be.
Understanding Disability Benefits
Each year, millions of Americans become unable to work due to injury or illness. The emotional and financial toll can be devastating, but two federal programs exist to help:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI provides monthly benefits to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. To qualify, you must:
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Be between 18 and 65 years old
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Have earned enough work credits
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Have a medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death
SSDI is not means-tested, so your assets or savings do not affect eligibility.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is designed for individuals who are disabled, blind, or over 65 with limited income and resources.
To qualify in 2025, your total countable resources must not exceed:
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$2,000 for individuals
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$3,000 for couples
(Your home and personal vehicle are excluded.)
While these programs seem straightforward, eligibility rules and documentation requirements are highly technical — that’s why working with experienced attorneys like Peña & Bromberg can make all the difference.
How the SSA Defines “Disability”
The SSA defines disability as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a physical or mental condition lasting at least one year or expected to result in death.
The SSA’s “Blue Book” lists qualifying impairments, including:
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Musculoskeletal disorders
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Neurological conditions
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Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
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Mental health disorders such as depression, PTSD, or schizophrenia
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Immune and autoimmune diseases
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify if medical records show it limits your ability to work. Peña & Bromberg ensures your evidence meets these strict SSA standards.
The Application and Appeals Process
Filing for disability benefits requires detailed medical evidence and properly completed forms. A single missing record or unchecked box can cause months of delay or even denial.
The Four Main Stages:
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Initial Application – Submission of all required forms, documentation, and medical reports.
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Reconsideration – A second review if the initial claim is denied.
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Administrative Hearing – Presentation of your case before an ALJ (Administrative Law Judge).
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Federal Appeal – Final option if previous levels are unsuccessful.
Throughout this process, our attorneys handle communication with SSA, organize medical evidence, and represent you during hearings to ensure your rights are protected.
Why Choose Peña & Bromberg, PLC
Choosing the right legal team can be the difference between approval and denial. At Peña & Bromberg, we provide:
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Over 30 years of combined legal experience in Social Security and disability law.
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Comprehensive, compassionate support for every client.
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Personal attention — you work directly with your attorney, not a case manager.
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No fees unless you win.
We proudly serve clients throughout the Central Valley — including Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, Modesto, and Sacramento — and represent individuals nationwide. Our attorneys are members of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR) and recognized advocates for the disabled.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and contributions to Social Security, while SSI is for individuals with limited income or resources regardless of work history.
2. How long does the disability process take?
Initial decisions typically take 3–6 months, but appeals can extend up to 12–24 months depending on case complexity and hearing backlog.
3. Can I work part-time while applying for or receiving benefits?
Yes, but your earnings must stay below the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold — about $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025.
4. What if my claim was denied?
You have 60 days to appeal. We’ll help you file for reconsideration, prepare for your hearing, and present strong medical evidence to support your case.
5. How much does it cost to hire Peña & Bromberg?
You pay nothing upfront. Our fee is 25% of backpay, capped at $7,200, or approved by the court if your case goes to federal appeal.
6. Can veterans receive both VA and SSA disability benefits?
Yes, many veterans qualify for both VA and SSA benefits. We help ensure your claims are properly coordinated to maximize your compensation.
7. Why do most disability applications get denied?
Most initial denials result from incomplete paperwork, missing medical evidence, or misunderstanding SSA rules — issues our firm helps prevent.
Why You Should Call Peña & Bromberg, PLC
If you’re unable to work due to a physical or mental disability, or if your Social Security claim has been denied, don’t wait to get the help you need. The legal team at Peña & Bromberg, PLC is dedicated to guiding individuals and families through every step of the Social Security Disability process — from the initial application to appeals and hearings before the Administrative Law Judge. With more than 30 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand how stressful and confusing this process can be, and we take pride in offering compassionate, personalized legal support that gets results. We handle all communication with the Social Security Administration, gather the medical documentation needed to prove your case, and fight for the benefits you are entitled to receive. You never pay any upfront fees — we only get paid if we win your case. Whether you are in Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, Sacramento, Modesto, or anywhere across the United States, our firm is ready to help you secure the financial stability you and your family deserve. Contact Peña & Bromberg, PLC today for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling (559) 439-9700 or visiting our website at www.jonathanpena.com.
