When you initially apply for SSI or SSDI, you may also choose to hire an attorney who specializes in disability law (disability lawyers should normally charge you only if you win your SSI or SSDI claim). If you are denied and wish to appeal, you can often get free legal assistance from non-profit legal aid organizations. If you are denied SSI or SSDI, or you believe your benefits have been unlawfully terminated, you can contact the following agencies:
Law Foundation of Silicon Valley – Health/Mental Health Program – Telephone: 408-280-2420
(phone intake hours: Mondays -Fridays, 1 pm – 4 pm)
Address: 152 North Third Street, 3rd Floor, San Jose, CA 95112
(Walk-in hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 pm – 4 pm)
Health/Mental Health Program provides free legal services to any individual who lives in Santa Clara County and who identifies as having a mental health or a developmental disability, or live with HIV/AIDS. Services available in Spanish and Vietnamese. The Mental Health Program can assist with public benefits, such as SSI/SSDI denials, overpayments and terminations.
Bay Area Legal Aid Economic Justice Project – Telephone: 800-551-5554
Represents individuals and families appealing unlawful terminations and wrongful denials of Supplemental Security Income, General Assistance, Food Stamps, In-Home Supportive Services, and also works to ensure that the CalWORKs program serves as a bridge to gainful employment.