Disability Advocacy Program

LawNY® has advocates who help low-income people appeal denials of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

The LawNY® Disability Advocacy Program serves clients in the following offices:

• Bath Office, (607) 776-4126 (Allegany and Steuben Counties)
• Elmira Office, (607) 734-1647 (Chemung and Schuyler Counties)
• Geneva Office, (315) 781-1465 (Livingston, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates Counties).
• Ithaca Office, (607) 273-3667 (Tioga and Tompkins Counties)
• Jamestown Office, (716) 664-4535 (Chautauqua County)
• Olean Office, (716) 373-4701 (Cattaraugus County)

A person who is disabled starts the process of getting SSI or SSDI by filing an application with the Social Security office. LawNY® does not assist with applications, but performs intakes for people who wish to appeal if the application is denied.

The first stage of appeal is called the Request For Reconsideration. If that is denied, the person can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. LawNY® most often represents clients at these two stages of appeal.

If the Administrative Law Judge denies the claim after the hearing, then the person can appeal further by requesting review with the Appeals Council, and then if that is denied, by filing in federal district court. LawNY® may represent people at these stages if LawNY® also represented the person at the hearing.

LawNY® may also provide representation to people who are receiving SSI or SSDI, but then received a notice saying that their benefits will stop. A person has the right to appeal to prevent their SSI or SSDI benefits from stopping.