SSI/SSDI

Assistance

CPWD staffs certified Non-Attorney Representatives (NARs) who are available to assist individuals with the Social Security Disability Benefits process by serving as their representative. This service is available to individuals who meet the financial, medical, and vocational requirements for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). CPWD’s representatives guide applicants through the process of working with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and navigating Disability Determination Services (DDS) to build the strongest case possible on their applications.

What are SSI and SSDI?

SSI is a program that provides financial support to individuals with disabilities who have low income and are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

The requirements for qualifying for SSI are:

  1. You must have a disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, this means earning less than $1,620/month or $2,700/month if you are blind..

  2. Your disability must be verified by medical records. 

  3. You must anticipate having this disability for at least the next 12 months, or have life expectancy that is 12 months or less. 

  4. You may not have more than $2,000 in savings or other resources ($3,000 for a married couple).

  5. You must be a U.S. citizen or meet certain noncitizen requirements.

SSDI is a program that offers disability insurance for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security.

The requirements for qualifying for SSDI are:

1.     You must have worked and paid social security taxes for at least 5 out of the last 10 years. or less if under the age of 31.

2.     You must have a disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, this means earning less than $1,620/month.

3. Your disability must be verified by medical records.

4.     You must be younger than full retirement age (usually 67 years old).

5. You must anticipate having this disability for at least the next 12 months, or have a life expectancy that is 12 months or less.

6. You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-U.S. citizen.

If you meet the criteria for either SSI or SSDI, and want to proceed with getting assistance from CPWD, please CLICK HERE to access the Request for Initial Social Security Benefits Assistance.

1.     Download the form

2.     Save or print to PDF

3.     Email to Brandy@cpwd.org

4.     Someone will follow up with you soon after to begin the application process

Questions:

Q: Is there a cost?

A: CPWD does not charge any upfront fees to be your representative. CPWD gets a one-time payment of 25% of your back pay if you are approved for SSI or SSDI benefits. The Social Security Administration pays this money directly to CPWD. If you don’t get benefits, there is no fee.

 

Q: What if my application is denied?

A: If you were denied for SSI or SSDI, or have a hearing scheduled, we can help you appeal. Our certified staff can represent you and explain your case to the judge.