How to Apply for Disability in Houston and Get Free Help

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If you need free help applying for disability benefits in Houston, you can turn to SOAR case managers, local legal nonprofits like Lone Star Legal Aid, and EDPNA-certified advocates.

I’m Nick Bryant, an expert in community resources and disability benefits navigation, and I’ve helped many people like you get the assistance they need.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through your options, explain the differences between legal advocates and lawyers, and show you exactly where to get help. Keep reading to learn how to apply for disability in Houston with confidence.

Get Free Help From SOAR Case Managers

If you are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness and have a serious mental illness or substance use disorder, SOAR case managers can help you apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for free.

SOAR (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery) is a national program designed to help people like you navigate the complicated disability application process. SOAR case managers gather your medical records, fill out application forms, and represent you during the process to improve your chances of approval.

In Houston, the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County is a key organization that offers SOAR assistance. You can contact them at (713) 739-7514 or visit their website at www.homelesshouston.org to find out if you qualify for their services.

Work With an EDPNA-Certified Advocate

If you want professional help with your disability application but don’t want to hire a lawyer, you can work with an Eligible for Direct Payment Non-Attorney (EDPNA).

EDPNAs are trained professionals who can help you apply for benefits, represent you in disability hearings, and communicate with Social Security on your behalf. The biggest difference between an EDPNA and a lawyer is that an EDPNA cannot represent you in federal court if your case gets denied after all Social Security appeals. However, they often charge lower fees than lawyers and still provide expert-level assistance.

To find an EDPNA-certified advocate in Houston, you can use the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR) directory at www.nadr.org.

Find a Disability Lawyer in Houston

If your case is complicated, has already been denied, or you just want a licensed attorney to represent you, hiring a disability lawyer is a good option. Lawyers can handle appeals, represent you at hearings, and even take your case to federal court if needed.

You can use online legal directories to find a disability lawyer in Houston:

  • Justia: Visit www.justia.com and search for Social Security disability lawyers in Houston.
  • Avvo: Another great resource where you can compare lawyer ratings and read client reviews. Visit www.avvo.com.

Disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if you win your case. Social Security limits their fee to 25% of your back pay or a maximum of $7,200, whichever is lower.

Get Free Legal Help From Houston Nonprofits

If you can’t afford a lawyer, you can get free help from legal nonprofits in Houston that specialize in disability benefits:

Conclusion

If you need help applying for disability in Houston, you have several free and low-cost options. You can work with SOAR case managers if you are at risk of homelessness, get help from EDPNA-certified advocates, or find a disability lawyer through Justia. If you can’t afford a lawyer, nonprofit legal organizations like Lone Star Legal Aid and Houston Volunteer Lawyers offer free assistance.

Don’t try to navigate the system alone. Reach out to these resources today and take the next step toward getting your disability check approved.

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