Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Get clear answers to common Social Security, VA disability, and immigration court questions. Each guide starts with a direct answer and links to useful next steps.
Social Security Disability
Hearings, work rules, denials, timelines, and benefit amounts.
-
Social Security Disability
How long does a disability hearing take?
Most Social Security disability hearings last about 30 to 60 minutes. Some take longer when the judge needs more evidence or testimony.
-
Social Security Disability
Can I work while waiting for disability?
Yes, you can work while an application is pending, but earnings and duties may affect whether SSA finds you disabled. Report work as required.
-
Social Security Disability
What if my doctor won’t fill out disability forms?
Your claim can continue if a doctor will not complete a form. Ask for records or a short medical statement, and give SSA evidence from all your providers.
-
Social Security Disability
How long does it take to get disability?
Many initial decisions take about 3 to 6 months. Appeals can add months or more than a year, depending on the stage, evidence, and local hearing wait.
-
Social Security Disability
I was denied disability — what do I do now?
Read the denial notice and appeal on time. In most cases, you have 60 days after you receive the notice. Do not miss the deadline while deciding what to do.
-
Social Security Disability
How much does disability pay?
There is no single disability payment amount. SSDI is based on your covered earnings, while SSI is based on financial eligibility and the federal benefit rate.
VA Disability Benefits
Ratings, claim timelines, and secondary conditions.
-
VA Disability Benefits
How are VA disability ratings calculated?
VA combines ratings using a remaining-efficiency formula, not regular addition. For example, 50% and 30% combine to 65%, which rounds to 70%.
-
VA Disability Benefits
How long does a VA disability claim take?
A fully developed claim may take about 3 to 5 months, while a standard claim may take about 6 to 12 months. These are estimates, not promises.
-
VA Disability Benefits
What is a VA secondary condition claim?
A secondary claim asks VA to connect a condition that was caused or made worse by an existing service-connected disability.
Immigration Court
Court hearings, bond, and finding free legal help.
-
Immigration Court
What happens at immigration court?
Immigration court is where a judge reviews a removal case and any requests for relief. Many cases have a short master calendar hearing and a later individual hearing.
-
Immigration Court
Can I get bond in immigration court?
Some detained people can ask an immigration judge to review bond, but eligibility depends on the detention law and the judge's authority in the case.
Getting Legal Help
Ways to find qualified, low-cost or free representation.
-
Getting Legal Help
How do I get free legal help for my case?
Start with the program that handles your case: SSA representatives, VA-accredited VSOs, EOIR pro bono providers, and legal aid groups may offer help.
This page gives general information, not legal advice. Rules and deadlines depend on the agency and facts of your case. Confirm details with the agency or a qualified representative.