A person in a wheelchair going down a carpeted hallway in an office building.

Seeking SSDI Benefits in Georgia?

Applying for Social Security disability can be overwhelming, especially when your health makes it hard to work. Many first-time applications are denied, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you live in Calhoun or the surrounding area, you may be entitled to benefits that can provide financial relief. Learn more from an attorney at The McMahan Law Firm today.

Get a FREE Case Review

This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is hidden when viewing the form

At The McMahan Law Firm, our Calhoun Social Security disability lawyers help people navigate the complex claims and appeals process. Whether you’re applying for the first time or challenging a denial, we can review your case, gather supporting evidence, and represent you throughout the process.

We know how stressful this time can be, and we offer free case reviews so you can understand your rights without financial pressure.

Get Your FREE Case Review

One Call or Click Is All It Takes

Getting help is only a simple call or click away. You don’t even have to leave your home! Contact our team today and we’ll start reviewing your case immediately.

You're Not Alone

Navigating the Social Security system can be really tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our disability lawyers can help guide you through the entire process.

Free Case Review

Your initial case review is always free, so we can advise you on your options with no upfront cost!

How to Apply for SSDI in Georgia

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) involves more than just filling out a form. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires proof that your medical condition prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Here are the main steps:

  • Gather your information: You’ll need medical records, work history, and personal details such as your Social Security number, recent tax forms, and a list of medications.
  • Complete the application: You can apply online at the SSA’s website, by phone, or at your local Social Security office in Georgia. The application will ask about your health, your daily limitations, and your employment history.
  • Submit medical evidence: The SSA relies heavily on medical documentation. This includes treatment notes, test results, and doctors’ statements about your ability to work.
  • Wait for a decision: Most initial applications take several months to review. Many are denied at first, but applicants have the right to appeal.
  • Consider legal help: An SSDI lawyer can guide you through the process, ensure paperwork is complete, and represent you if your claim is denied and needs to go to a hearing.

Applying correctly from the start can help reduce delays and improve your chances of success.

Our Calhoun Social Security Disability Attorney

Can You Work While Receiving SSDI Benefits?

Yes, it is possible to work in Calhoun, GA, while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but there are strict limits on how much you can earn. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets a monthly income cap called substantial gainful activity (SGA). If you earn more than this amount, you may lose your benefits.

In 2025, the SGA limit is:

  • $1,620 per month for most disabled workers
  • $2,700 per month for individuals who are blind

The SSA also offers a Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. During this time, you can earn above the SGA level for a limited number of months while still receiving SSDI payments.

It’s important to track your earnings carefully and report any work activity to the SSA. Working part-time or within the income limits will not automatically disqualify you, but exceeding the thresholds can affect your eligibility.

If you’re unsure about how much you can work while on SSDI, a disability lawyer in Calhoun can explain your options and help protect your benefits.

How Long Does It Take to Receive SSDI Benefits?

The process of getting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can take several months or even longer, depending on your case.

  • Initial application: On average, it takes about 3 to 6 months for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to review an application and issue a decision.
  • Appeals process: If your claim is denied, requesting reconsideration or a hearing before an administrative law judge can extend the timeline by several more months to over a year.
  • Back pay: If you’re approved, you may receive back benefits dating to your original application date, but there is a mandatory 5-month waiting period from the time the SSA determines your disability began before monthly payments start.

Because delays are common, it’s important to submit complete paperwork and medical evidence from the start. A Social Security Disability lawyer in Calhoun can help you understand what to expect and guide you through the appeals process if needed.

Get Your FREE Case Review

Our Results Speak For Themselves!

Workers’ Comp/Third-Party

$8,000,000.00+

Motorcycle Accident

$1,250,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$1,000,000.00

Brain Injury

$950,000.00

Truck Accident

$850,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$800,000.00

Truck Accident

$500,000.00

Motorcycle Accident

$500,000.00

Car Accident

$230,000.00

Workers’ Comp

$225,000.00

See More Results

How Much Does a Disability Lawyer Charge?

The SSA regulates attorney fees for Social Security disability lawyers. Typically:

  • The fee is capped at 25% of your past-due benefits
  • With a maximum of $9,200 (as of 2025)

You are also responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses related to gathering records or evidence, but these costs are usually modest and explained upfront.

This fee structure allows individuals to pursue SSDI claims without worrying about hourly rates or large upfront costs. If you’re considering filing or appealing a disability claim in Calhoun, a lawyer can review your situation in a free consultation so you understand what to expect.

Choose Board Certified – Not Billboard

Just because it’s on a billboard doesn’t mean it’s the best option. Lawyers who shell out all that money for billboard ads are all talk and no substance. You and your family deserve the legal aid only a board-certified attorney can give you. Attorneys Jay, Brent, and Herbert at The McMahan Law Firm are Board Certified Civil Trial Specialists by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. We have the knowledge and experience you can trust to help you seek maximum compensation for your losses.

Who Qualifies for SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed for people who can no longer work because of a serious medical condition. To qualify, applicants must meet both medical and work history requirements.

Medical requirements:

  • You must have a condition that prevents you from working.
  • The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
  • The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a list of impairments, but other conditions may qualify if they limit your ability to work.

Work history requirements:

  • You must have worked long enough and recently enough in jobs that paid into Social Security.
  • Work credits are earned through your yearly wages or self-employment income.
  • Generally, younger workers need fewer credits, while older workers need more.

Meeting these requirements can be complicated, and many first-time applications are denied. If you’re unsure whether you qualify for SSDI, a disability lawyer in Calhoun can review your case and explain your options.

What Happens If Your Claim Is Denied?

A denied Social Security Disability claim can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t mean the process is over. In fact, many applicants are denied the first time and later win benefits through appeals.

If your SSDI claim is denied, you have the right to appeal through several stages:

  1. Reconsideration: A different examiner reviews your application and any new evidence you provide.
  2. Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration is denied, you can present your case at a hearing. This is often where many applicants are successful.
  3. Appeals Council review: If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you may request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council.
  4. Federal court review: As a final step, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.

Appealing requires strict deadlines and detailed evidence. Having a Social Security Disability lawyer in Calhoun on your side can make the process less stressful by helping gather records, representing you at hearings, and helping ensure your appeal is filed on time.

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

See More Testimonials

How We Help SSDI Applicants

Applying for SSDI is stressful, and appealing a denial can feel overwhelming. At The McMahan Law Firm, our goal is to make the process easier for you and your family by providing knowledgeable support at every stage.

Here’s how our team assists SSDI applicants in Calhoun:

  • Stronger applications: We help gather medical records, work history, and other documentation to present a complete and organized claim.
  • Guidance through appeals: If your claim has been denied, we can represent you at hearings and ensure deadlines and procedures are followed.
  • Personalized support: We communicate with the SSA on your behalf and keep you informed, so you don’t feel lost in the process.

Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, our disability lawyers in Calhoun can help you understand your options in a free consultation.