Need Assistance With An SSDI Claim?
Social Security Disability Insurance is a valuable benefit most workers who are part of the Social Security system have available should they lose the ability to work. The difficulty with the program is that the application is complex and if you are denied on your initial application, the appeals process becomes even more complex.
At Pierce, Pierce & Napolitano, our attorneys are experienced with handling Social Security Disability claims from the initial application process, through reconsideration, and when necessary, at a hearing before a Federal Administrative Law Judge. We have worked with hundreds of clients and this experience means we understand what a successful claim looks like as well as how to help clients who have had their application for SSDI benefits denied.
A Very Specific Definition Of ‘Disability’
To be found disabled under the SSDI definition, you must be unable to engage in gainful employment for a period of at least 12 months. The definition encompasses a broad range of medical conditions and illnesses, but because it is so broad, it is demanding in terms of the type of evidence necessary to demonstrate to the Social Security Administration that you qualify as “disabled.”
A Complex Application
Oftentimes, clients are denied a valid claim because they have difficulty complying with the evidentiary requirements necessary to show your disability. The basic application form is 13 pages in length, and you need to carefully answer all the sections, often needing to provide extensive medical records and documentation of your injuries, illnesses, medical conditions, prescription drugs, treatments, surgeries and therapy. We can help you understand the questions and explain the types of supporting documentation that will prove useful to your claim.
We also can assist with appeals or hearings with administrative law judges. These hearings, while less formal than a regular courtroom, can still be intimidating to the average person. We can help you understand how these proceedings work and help you prepare for these hearings to present the strongest case possible for your claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Social Security Disability benefits system can be extremely complex, so it is understandable that you may have questions. Our team is happy to provide answers:
I can still work part-time. Can I still qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in Massachusetts?
Yes, you do not necessarily lose your benefits if you decide to return to work part-time. There is a nine-month trial work period. During this period, you can still receive full disability payments. Any month in which you earn a net income of more than $1,160 is considered part of your trial. There is no upper income limit during this time, meaning you can earn as much as you want. Additionally, you can use these nine months over a five-year period–they do not have to be consecutive.
Next, you may be able to work during an extended period of eligibility for 36 months. Income limits do kick in at this point, so you only receive disability payments in months where your income is under the limit.
What are the income limits for Social Security Disability in Massachusetts?
There are two main income limits, and they depend on whether or not you have a visual disability. If you have been diagnosed as legally blind, then you are allowed to earn up to $2,700 per month. If you exceed this amount, you could be disqualified from receiving benefits. If you are not legally blind, then the limit is lower–$1,620 per month.
Note that these limits can and do change–it is crucial to look into the most up-to-date figures. The above are current as of 2025.
What is the role of the Disability Determination Services (DDS) in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the DDS is responsible for helping individuals determine their eligibility for either Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). DDS will process your initial application, review it and provide a decision. If your benefits are denied, you can file an appeal, and DDS also handles the appeals process.
Furthermore, DDS conducts periodic reviews to determine whether you are still eligible for benefits as your condition changes or if you return to work. In Massachusetts, DDS has an extensive staff of over 300 medical consultants and 70 medical and mental health professionals. There are two DDS state offices, one in Boston and one in Worcester.
Contact Us
Our office has successfully handled hundreds of Social Security Disability claims. Most cases are handled on a contingency basis, which means you pay no fee unless you receive money. Call our Salem office at 978-935-4632 or use our online form to tell us about your case.