Social Security Disability Attorney | The Sapp Law Firm
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Social Security Disability
Your Disability Benefits Were Denied. That Doesn't Mean It's Over.
Most initial Social Security Disability applications are denied. With Jonathan Sapp in your corner, you have a skilled advocate who knows how to build a winning case and pursue the benefits you've earned.
Call 205-282-4467 Free Case Review
No Fee Unless We Win
Free Consultation
Denied? We Can Help
SSDI & SSI Claims
Don't Give Up — A Skilled Advocate Makes All the Difference
The Social Security Disability application process is notoriously difficult. The Social Security Administration denies the vast majority of initial applications — many of which involve people who are genuinely disabled and truly need the benefits they've spent their working lives paying into.
Jonathan Coleman Sapp has helped thousands of Alabama residents navigate the SSD system. He understands what the SSA looks for, how to document your disability effectively, and how to present your case at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
Whether you're filing for the first time, appealing a denial, or requesting a hearing, we're ready to guide you through every step of the process. There's no fee unless we win.
~67%
Of initial SSDI applications are denied by the SSA — most denials can be appealed
$0
Upfront costs — our fee comes only from your back pay if we win your case
27+
Years helping disabled Alabamians secure the benefits they deserve
Two Types of Social Security Disability Benefits
The SSA administers two distinct disability programs. We help clients qualify for both.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is a federal insurance program funded by the payroll taxes you've paid throughout your working life. Eligibility is based on your work history and how much you've paid into the Social Security system.
If approved, you'll receive monthly benefits and eventually qualify for Medicare coverage after a 24-month waiting period.
Requires sufficient work credits earned through prior employment
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based program for disabled individuals with limited income and resources. It does not require a work history, which makes it available to disabled adults who haven't worked enough to qualify for SSDI.
SSI recipients in Alabama may also qualify for Medicaid coverage to help with medical costs.
Based on financial need — no work history required
The SSD Appeals Process
If you've been denied, the appeals process offers multiple levels of review. We guide you through each stage and fight for you at every turn.
01
Initial Application
The first step is completing and submitting your application to the SSA with full medical documentation. Most applications are denied at this stage — but that's not the end of the road.
02
Reconsideration
After an initial denial, you have 60 days to request reconsideration — a review by a different SSA examiner. Denial rates at reconsideration remain high, making the next level critical.
60-Day Deadline
03
Administrative Law Judge Hearing
This is where representation matters most. If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ — a formal proceeding where Jonathan presents your case and examines vocational and medical experts. Approval rates improve significantly at this level with strong representation.
Most Important Stage
04
Appeals Council & Federal Court
If the ALJ denies your claim, additional appeals are available through the SSA's Appeals Council and, ultimately, federal district court. We pursue every available avenue on your behalf.
Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits?
The SSA applies a strict definition of disability. We help you determine whether you meet the criteria and build the strongest possible case for your claim.
Medical Requirements
- A medically determinable physical or mental impairment
- The impairment must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
- The condition prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity
- Your condition must be documented by acceptable medical evidence
- The SSA must be unable to assign you to other available work
Conditions That Commonly Qualify
- Musculoskeletal disorders (back injuries, joint disease)
- Cardiovascular conditions (heart disease, heart failure)
- Neurological disorders (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)
- Mental health conditions (depression, PTSD, anxiety)
- Respiratory disorders (COPD, asthma)
- Cancer and autoimmune diseases
- Diabetes and endocrine disorders
Were You Denied? Here's Why It Happens — and What We Do About It
Most denials are not final, and many are the result of fixable problems in the application or documentation. Jonathan Sapp reviews the specific reasons for your denial and builds a targeted response.
Insufficient Medical Evidence
The SSA requires detailed, consistent medical records. We work with your doctors to obtain the documentation needed to support your claim.
Earning Above the Limit
If you're earning above the SGA threshold, your claim will be denied. We advise on work activity and how it affects your eligibility.
Non-Compliance with Treatment
Failing to follow prescribed treatment can result in denial. We address these issues and document legitimate reasons for non-compliance.
The SSA Claims You Can Work
The SSA may believe other jobs exist you can perform. We challenge these assessments with expert vocational testimony at your hearing.
Missing the Appeals Deadline
Each appeal has a strict 60-day deadline. We make sure you never miss a critical filing date that could end your right to appeal.
Poor Initial Application
Incomplete or poorly documented initial applications are a leading cause of denial. We help you get it right — or fix it on appeal.
Why Choose The Sapp Law Firm for Your Disability Claim
Disability Law Is What We Do
Social Security Disability is a core part of our practice — we understand the system, the process, and what it takes to win at a hearing.
Jonathan Handles Your Case
You work with Jonathan Sapp directly. He returns calls, answers questions, and personally prepares and presents your hearing case.
Recognized by Fox 6 LawCall
Jonathan's expertise in disability and personal injury law has made him a trusted resource on Alabama's Fox 6 LawCall program.
No Win, No Fee
We're paid only if we win — and our fee is capped by federal law. You have nothing to lose by calling us today.
Denied Benefits? Call Us Today — We Can Help.
Most SSD victories happen on appeal. Don't wait — deadlines are strict and Jonathan Sapp is ready to start working on your case now.
Call 205-282-4467 — Free Consultation
Toll free: 888-821-0531
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