Los Angeles Social Security Disability Attorney
Los Angeles is one of the largest and most economically diverse cities in the world. From entertainment and hospitality to healthcare, construction, and technology, millions of residents depend on their ability to work to support themselves and their families.
When a serious medical condition prevents you from working, the financial consequences can be immediate and overwhelming. Rent, utilities, medical expenses, and daily living costs do not stop simply because you are unable to earn income.
If you are unable to work due to a disability, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Disability Advocates Group represents clients throughout Los Angeles in disability applications, hearings, and appeals.
We focus exclusively on disability law and are committed to helping you secure the benefits you deserve.
Why Clients Choose Us
- Free Consultations With No Obligation
- Decades Of Experience Handling SSDI And SSI Claims
- Focused Practice Dedicated To Disability Law
- Strategic Representation At Administrative Hearings
- Thorough, Evidence-Driven Case Preparation
- No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
Types of Social Security Disability Benefits In Los Angeles
Social Security Disability Insurance gives disabled workers compensation to pay for their medical care and day-to-day expenses. Recipients receive Social Security Disability Insurance in monthly cash payments for the length of their disability. The Social Security Administration periodically increases the amount of benefits when the cost of living increases. Social Security Disability Insurance is government-funded through payroll taxes known as FICA. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two primary disability programs:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
To qualify, applicants must show:
- A medically determinable impairment
- An inability to perform substantial gainful activity
- A condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Many initial claims are denied due to incomplete documentation, insufficient medical evidence, or technical filing errors. Proper preparation is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for disability in Los Angeles?
Initial decisions can take several months. If a hearing is required, the process may take over a year, depending on the assigned hearing office.
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on work history and payroll contributions. SSI is based on financial need and limited assets.
Can I work part-time while applying for disability?
Possibly. However, income above certain limits may affect eligibility. Each case must be evaluated individually.
What happens if my disability claim is denied?
You have 60 days to file an appeal. Many applicants are approved at the hearing stage with proper representation.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI benefits are available to individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes.
Eligibility is based on:
- Work credits
- Medical severity
- Functional limitations preventing employment
The amount of SSDI benefits depends on your earnings history. Because Los Angeles has a high cost of living, SSDI payments can be essential to maintaining financial stability after a disability.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based program designed for individuals with limited income and resources.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Meet strict income limits
- Have limited assets
- Meet the federal disability definition
In California, qualifying individuals may receive additional state supplementation.
Most First-Time Applications Are Denied
Strong medical evidence and detailed work history documentation significantly improve approval chances. Early legal guidance can prevent costly delays.
Dealing With Disability Appeals in Los Angeles
If your disability claim has been denied, you have 60 days to file an appeal.
The appeals process may involve:
- Request for Reconsideration
- Administrative Law Judge hearing
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court appeal
At hearings, vocational experts may testify about whether you can perform other work. Effective cross-examination and medical evidence presentation can make the difference between approval and denial.
Our attorneys prepare every case with the expectation that it may proceed to a hearing.
Learn MoreHear What Our Clients Have to Say
“I am very grateful with the positive results regarding my case, “DAG” from Encino California. The staff involving Rosa Anzures-Case Manager, also Mark Shirman-Supervisor, and Michelle Jordana Shvarts-Attorney, whom are very instrumental as a team. All my inquiries were handled on a timely manner, and all my questions were addressed professionally. Especially during a time when I was stressful and overwhelmed. I highly recommend “DAG” for your services.” – Lalo R.
Contact Our Los Angeles Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
If you are unable to work due to a disability, you do not have to navigate the Social Security system alone. Disability Advocates Group focuses exclusively on helping disabled individuals secure SSDI and SSI benefits. Whether you are filing an initial application or appealing a denial, we are prepared to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your free consultation below.
We Represent Clients Throughout Greater Los Angeles
Our firm represents individuals across:
- Downtown Los Angeles
- San Fernando Valley
- West Los Angeles
- Norwalk
- Pasadena
- South Bay
- Long Beach
- Surrounding communities
Each Regional Office of Hearing Operations (OHO) has its own distinct group of administrative law judges (ALJ). Similarly, the time to wait for a hearing to be scheduled and the chance of winning a hearing and receiving benefits varies between hearing offices. For example, applicants for SSDI or SSI face typically wait an average of 15 months for a hearing at Downtown Los Angeles or Long Beach but wait over 20 months for a hearing in West Los Angeles. Similarly, while 45-48% of applicants win their hearings at Pasadena and Norwalk, only 37-39% of applicants win their hearings at Downtown and West Los Angeles. Wait times to receive a final decision about disability benefits also vary between hearing offices, ranging from 461 days in Norwalk to 601 days in West Los Angeles.
606 South Olive Street,Suite 1200
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Telephone: (888) 488-0517
Fax: (213) 894-2595
Office Hours: 7:30AM - 4:30PM
Areas Served: Crenshaw, Downtown Los Angeles, University Village, Watts
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Telephone: (866) 748-2089
Fax: (310) 479-3370
Office Hours: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Areas Served: Chatsworth, Culver City, Hollywood, Inglewood, Lancaster, Los Angeles Westwood, Panorama City, Santa Clarita
Norwalk, CA 90650
Telephone: (877) 870-6385
Fax: (562) 462-9289
Office Hours: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Areas Served: Boyle Heights, Compton, Downey, Huntington Park, Montebello, Norwalk, Whittier
800 E. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 500
Pasadena, CA 91101
Telephone: (866) 354-0220
Fax: (626) 793-3080
Areas Served: Alhambra, Arcadia, Burbank, El Monte, Glendale, Glendora, Industry Hills, Old Burbank, Pasadena, San Fernando, West Covina
501 West Ocean Boulevard, Suite 5300
Long Beach, CA 90802
Telephone: (855) 532-0889
Fax: (562) 980-4131
Office Hours: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Areas Served: Lakewood, Long Beach, San Pedro, Torrance
