Trying to file for SSDI again after getting SSI approval - Why won't attorneys help me?

most lawyers wont take ur case bc they get paid from backpay and if ur already gettin ssi theres not much backpay to get. its not worth there time sorry.

There are a few important things to understand here: 1. You're correct that SSI and SSDI are different programs. SSI is needs-based while SSDI requires work credits. 2. The issue isn't that you can't apply for SSDI while on SSI - you absolutely can if you have enough work credits. 3. The reason attorneys are declining is financial. Disability attorneys typically receive 25% of your backpay (capped at $7,000). Since you're already receiving SSI, any SSDI award would be offset by your SSI payments when calculating backpay, significantly reducing their potential fee. 4. However, if your SSDI monthly benefit would be substantially higher than your current SSI, some attorneys might still consider it worthwhile. My advice: Be explicit about your potential SSDI benefit amount when contacting attorneys. The Social Security Administration can give you an estimate of your SSDI benefit. If it's significantly higher than your SSI, mention this specifically to attorneys.

i went thru something similar!!!! was on SSI then tried for SSDI. the trick is to apply yourself first, get denied, THEN find a lawyer for the appeal. they're more interested when you've already started the process. also try smaller local law firms not the big ones with TV commercials they're pickier.

The whole system is RIGGED against us! Lawyers only care about BIG PAYDAYS not helping disabled folks who need it. I tried going from SSI to SSDI too and got nowhere because my backpay wouldn't be enough to buy them a new BMW. Meanwhile we struggle to survive on pennies while the government makes it IMPOSSIBLE to navigate their systems without help. The lawyers and SSA are basically working together to keep us poor and desperate!

I was in your exact situation last year. I had been on SSI for almost 2 years when I finally found an attorney to help with my SSDI case. The key was showing documentation that my SSDI benefit would be substantially higher than my SSI payment. I also had to prove that I had enough work credits before my disability onset date. What worked for me was calling disability attorneys and specifically explaining the potential backpay amount based on the difference between the two benefits. I also had to try about 8-9 different attorneys before finding one willing to help. By the way, have you tried using Claimyr to get through to an actual SSA agent? I couldn't get any straight answers until I used their service at claimyr.com to connect with a real person at Social Security who explained exactly what documentation I needed for my specific situation. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU - saved me hours of hold time and disconnected calls.

There's a strategic approach you can take here. Focus on these key points: 1. Calculate the exact difference between your potential SSDI benefit and current SSI payment 2. Determine when your disability actually began (onset date) - this affects backpay 3. Gather all medical evidence showing your condition has worsened 4. Look for attorneys specializing in SSI-to-SSDI conversions (not all attorneys advertise this) The window for potential backpay is 12 months prior to your application date (for SSDI) minus any months you've already received SSI. This is the calculation attorneys use to determine if your case is financially viable for them. One more critical point: if you're approved for SSDI and it's higher than your SSI, you may qualify for Concurrent Benefits (receiving both with the SSI reduced).

my cousin got ssi then ssdi later but he did it himself no lawyer. its possible just gotta fill out all the papers right and have good medical stuff.

Update: I wanted to thank everyone for their advice! I was able to get through to SSA using Claimyr (thanks for that tip!) and confirmed my SSDI benefit would be $972/month - much higher than my current SSI. The agent also explained that because I have more work credits now than when I first applied, my case might be stronger. I'm going to apply on my own first as suggested, and then look for an attorney for the appeal if needed. I'll specifically mention the benefit amount difference when talking to attorneys. Really appreciate all your help!