Social Security Disability Lawyer in Pennsylvania –
Get the Benefits You Deserve
When You Can’t Work, We Step In to Help
If a serious injury or illness has left you unable to work for 12 months or more, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This federal program provides monthly income for people who can’t earn a living due to a physical or mental condition.
At Vellner Law, we often meet clients in Allentown, Bethlehem, and across the Lehigh Valley who are first referred to us after a work injury—but some of those same clients eventually need help pursuing long-term disability benefits too. Whether your condition started on the job or not, we help Pennsylvania residents apply for and win the Social Security Disability benefits they’ve earned.
Do I Qualify for SSDI Benefits in Pennsylvania?
SSDI is not based on financial need—it’s based on your work history and medical condition. To qualify, you must:
Have enough “work credits” (typically earned by working for about 5 of the last 10 years and paying into Social Security through your job)
Have a medically documented impairment—physical or mental—that prevents you from doing any substantial gainful work
Expect the condition to last at least 12 months, or result in death
Common qualifying conditions include:
Severe back, spine, or joint injuries
Traumatic brain injury
PTSD and other mental health disorders
Chronic illnesses like MS, cancer, or heart disease
Post-surgical complications
Long-term pain conditions following a work injury
Even if your condition didn’t start from a work accident, you may still be eligible if your disability prevents you from holding any steady job.
Applying for Social Security Disability – Don’t Go It Alone
Filing for SSDI can be frustrating. The application includes long forms, detailed medical records, and very specific questions about your limitations. Many applicants are surprised when they’re denied—even when their disability is real and well-documented.
In fact, the Social Security Administration denies around 60–70% of initial applications.
We help you:
Gather and present medical evidence that meets SSA’s criteria
Get clear, detailed statements from your treating doctors
Complete all forms accurately
Avoid the common mistakes that lead to delays or denials
Denied SSDI? Don’t Give Up – We Handle Appeals
Most people who win disability benefits get them after an appeal. If your claim is denied, you have the right to challenge that decision—and we know how to do it right.
Appeal stages include:
Reconsideration
a second review of your file
Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
where you can testify, submit updated evidence, and have an attorney present your case
Appeals Council or federal court
for further review if needed
Attorney Anthony Vellner has decades of experience representing clients in Social Security Disability hearings across Pennsylvania. He’ll prepare you, explain what to expect, and argue your case in front of the judge.
Need help appealing a denial? Start here
What If I’m Also Getting Workers’ Comp?
Many injured workers ask: “Can I get workers’ compensation and SSDI at the same time?” The answer is yes—but with some important considerations.
Social Security may reduce your monthly SSDI check if you’re also getting workers’ comp, so that your total combined benefits don’t exceed a certain percentage of your previous earnings. But with proper planning, that offset can often be minimized.
At Vellner Law, we’re experienced in both systems. We can help:
Make sure your benefits are calculated fairly
Structure any comp settlement with language that reduces the SSDI offset
Avoid conflicts that could delay either claim
Explore more about coordinating SSDI and workers’ comp
No Upfront Cost – We Only Get Paid If You Win
You won’t pay anything out of pocket to hire us for a Social Security Disability case. If you win, our fee comes out of your backpay and is capped by federal law (typically 25% of past-due benefits, up to $7,200 as of 2024). If you don’t win, you pay nothing.
This makes it easier to get the legal help you need, without worrying about cost.
Get a Free Case Evaluation – We’ll Handle the Paperwork, You Focus on Healing
If you can’t work and think you might qualify for SSDI benefits, don’t face the Social Security Administration alone. Whether you’re just getting started or already denied, we’re here to help.
Call Vellner Law today for a free consultation. We serve Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and clients across Pennsylvania—virtually and in person.
Contact us today to schedule your free SSD case review