If you’re wondering How do I get social security disability in Wisconsin, you’re not alone. Thousands of Wisconsin residents apply for disability benefits every year, yet many feel confused about the application process. While the steps may seem overwhelming, the good news is this:
Social Security Disability (SSDI and SSI) is governed entirely by federal law, which means the rules are the same whether you live in Wisconsin or Wyoming.
Because of this, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same standardized 5-step process to evaluate every disability claim. Understanding this process—and knowing how to prepare—can dramatically improve your chances of approval.
Why Understanding the SSDI/SSI Process Matters
Social Security disability claims can be complicated, highly technical, and frustrating. Missing medical records, incomplete forms, and unclear explanations are among the most common reasons applications get denied.
Working with an experienced professional—such as a Social security disability lawyer near me—can ensure your case is properly prepared and supported with strong evidence.
Understanding the Social Security Disability Evaluation Process
Below is the 5-step analysis used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to review every claim. Attorney Vincent Hein, who has handled hundreds of disability cases, uses this same framework when evaluating a client’s eligibility.
Step 1: Are You Working at Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Level?
The SSA first determines whether you are working and earning above a certain monthly amount.
If your income exceeds the SGA limit, you generally cannot be considered disabled.
Step 2: Do You Have a Severe, Medically Determinable Impairment?
Your condition must be:
- Medically diagnosed
- Expected to last at least 12 months, or result in death
- Serious enough to limit your ability to perform basic work activities
This step requires strong medical evidence.
Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet or Equal a Listed Impairment?
SSA maintains a “Blue Book” of medical impairments.
If your disability matches a listed condition (or is medically equivalent), you may be approved at this step.
Common qualifying impairments include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Mental health conditions
- Neurological disorders
- Immune system disorders
- Cardiovascular issues
Step 4: Can You Perform Any of Your Past Relevant Work?
SSA reviews your employment history from the past 5 years.
Even if you can no longer perform your most recent job, SSA will ask whether you can return to any past work based on your physical and mental limitations.
Step 5: Can You Perform Any Other Work in the National Economy?
If you can’t do past work, SSA determines whether you can perform any job considering:
- Age
- Education
- Work history
- Medical limitations
This final step is where many claims are denied—and where having a skilled Social security disability attorney becomes critical.
Why Work With an Experienced Disability Attorney?
Attorney Vincent Hein has managed hundreds of Social Security disability cases, giving him a deep understanding of the SSA’s complex rules and expectations.
Benefits of Hiring a Disability Lawyer
- Helps gather & organize medical records
- Prepares you for hearings
- Identifies weaknesses in your case
- Strengthens arguments using federal disability law
- Handles appeals if your claim is denied
A strong legal strategy often makes the difference between approval and denial.
Watch Attorney Vincent Hein’s Disability Explanation Video
Attorney Hein created an educational video to help applicants understand how the SSA process works and what evidence is needed to win a claim.
FAQ’s
No. SSDI and SSI are federal programs, so the rules are the same in every state.
Initial decisions can take 3–6 months. Appeals often take longer. Working with a Social security disability lawyer near me can help avoid delays.
Hundreds of conditions may qualify if they limit your ability to work for at least 12 months. Evidence is essential.
SSDI is based on work credits. SSI is need-based. Some people qualify for both.
Not required—but strongly recommended. Disability law is complex, and an attorney increases your chances of approval.
Most are initially denied. You have the right to appeal, and an experienced Social security disability attorney can help you build a stronger case.
Hein Law Office, LLC
