Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a federal program that pays benefits to people who can no longer work because of a qualifying medical condition. While the program is run nationally by the Social Security Administration, the medical review of Massachusetts claims is handled by a state agency, and the process has several stages. The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl in Fall River helps Massachusetts and Rhode Island residents understand and pursue these claims.
Who Qualifies for SSDI
SSDI is based on two things: your work history and your medical condition. You generally need enough recent work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes, and you must have a condition expected to last at least a year or result in death that prevents you from doing substantial work. It is not the same as SSI, which is needs-based rather than work-history based. You can read more about eligibility on our
Social Security Disability page.
How the Application Is Reviewed in Massachusetts
You apply through the Social Security Administration, online, by phone, or at a local field office. From there, the medical portion of a Massachusetts claim is sent to the state Disability Determination Services, which reviews your records and decides whether your condition meets the federal standard. Strong, complete medical documentation is the single biggest factor at this stage, which is why gathering records from every treating provider matters so much.
The Appeal Stages
Many first applications are denied, and a denial is not the end of the road. The process moves through defined stages:
- Initial application is the first decision on your claim.
- Reconsideration is a fresh review by someone who did not make the first decision.
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, where you can testify and present evidence.
- Appeals Council review if the hearing decision is unfavorable.
Each stage has strict deadlines, usually 60 days to move to the next step, so acting quickly after a denial protects your claim.
Why Documentation and Deadlines Matter
The difference between an approved and a denied claim often comes down to how well the medical evidence connects your condition to your inability to work, and whether every deadline was met along the way. Keeping a record of your treatment, following your doctor's recommendations, and responding promptly to any request from the agency all strengthen a claim. When a case reaches the hearing stage, having someone prepare the evidence and represent you can make the process far less overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you have paid, while SSI is a needs-based program tied to income and resources. Some people qualify for one, and some for both.
How long does a disability decision take in Massachusetts?
Initial decisions often take several months, and appeals can take longer. Timelines vary by claim and by how quickly medical records are gathered.
What should I do if my SSDI claim is denied?
Do not give up. Most claims are denied at first. You generally have 60 days to request the next stage of review, so act promptly and gather any additional medical evidence.
Have Questions About a Disability Claim?
Call the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl at
(508) 677-4900 or reach us through our
contact page.
