Social Security Disability (SSD) Lawyers In South Jersey

Need help securing benefits? A skilled Social Security Disability lawyer in South Jersey can make all the difference.

At Castellani Law Firm, we guide clients through the complex SSD process, from initial applications to appeals. We know how frustrating denials can be, and we’re here to fight for the benefits you’ve worked hard for.

Our team helps gather the right medical evidence, handle paperwork, and present your case clearly so you have the best chance at approval. 

You don’t have to navigate the system alone - we’ll stand by you every step of the way.

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Or Call Us Now: (609) 641-2288

Who Qualifies For SSD Benefits In NJ?

Not everyone who’s sick or injured will automatically get SSD benefits in New Jersey.

Social Security Disability (SSD) is for people who can’t work due to a serious physical or mental condition that’s expected to last at least a year or might even be permanent.

To qualify, you need to have:

  • A medical condition that seriously limits your ability to work
  • A decent work history, usually around 5 out of the last 10 years (depending on your age)
  • Paid into the Social Security system (Payroll taxes on your paycheck counts)

It’s not always black and white, though. Some people clearly meet the rules, and others fall into a gray area. That’s where we come in.

Common Disabilities That Qualify For SSD

There’s no one-size-fits-all list of conditions that automatically qualify, but there are many that the Social Security Administration (SSA) regularly approves if there’s enough medical evidence and your situation lines up with their criteria.

Some of the most common conditions include:

  • Back problems and spinal disorders
  • Severe arthritis or joint pain
  • Heart disease or heart failure
  • Cancer (certain types and stages)
  • Mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia
  • Chronic illnesses like Crohn’s disease or lupus
  • Neurological conditions like MS, Parkinson’s, or epilepsy

There are a ton of others. Even conditions that might seem “invisible” or misunderstood (like fibromyalgia or PTSD) can qualify if they impact your daily life and ability to work.

The important thing is how that condition affects your life. You could have a condition that’s on their list but still get denied if they don’t think it’s disabling enough.

Why Do So Many Applications Get Denied?

Over 60% of first-time SSD applications get denied. That's more than half! And it’s not because people aren’t truly disabled, it’s usually because of paperwork, timing, or tiny technical mistakes that sink the whole thing.

Sometimes people don’t submit enough medical evidence or they miss a deadline or they don’t explain how their condition affects their daily life in the right way. 

The SSA doesn’t dig deep to find reasons to approve you, you’ve to hand them a clear, complete, compelling case, and most people just don’t know how.

That is why having a South Jersey Social Security Disability lawyer is super important.

How Our South Jersey Social Security Disability Lawyers Help

At Castellani Law Firm, we help build your case from the ground up.

We start by really getting to know your story. Then we pull together strong medical evidence, work with your doctors, and help show how your condition affects your daily life. 

We take care of the paperwork, chase down deadlines, and keep the process moving.

Already got denied? That’s not the end of the road. We can step in and handle the appeals process, represent you at your hearing, and fight to get the decision reversed. Many of our clients come to us after they’ve been turned down, and we help them turn things around.

Our job is to make this stressful process as easy as possible. So you can focus on your health and your family, and not worry about the mountain of red tape.

Why Choose Our Social Security Disability Lawyer In South Jersey

There are lots of South Jersey Social Security Disability lawyers out there. We get it. But here’s why people in South Jersey keep choosing us, year after year:

No Fee Unless You Win

Money’s tight when you’re unable to work. That’s why we don’t charge a dime unless we win your case. No surprise bills. No hidden fees. If you don’t win, you don’t pay. We take the risk with you because we believe in the work we do.

People-Focused Services

You’re not just another case in a stack of folders. You’re a person with a story, and we treat you like one. We take the time to listen, explain things in plain English, and make sure you're never left in the dark. Need a quick update or have a question? You’ll talk to a real person and not a phone tree.

Locally Trusted And Backed By 34 Years Of Experience

We’ve been doing this right here in South Jersey for over three decades. We know the local Social Security offices, the judges, and the process inside and out. This isn’t some out-of-town firm that swoops in. We’re part of this community, and we’re proud to serve it.

Proven Track Record

Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of people win the SSD benefits they deserved. Many of them came to us after being denied, frustrated and discouraged. We turned things around. We know how to present your case in a way that gets results, and we’ll bring that same determination to your claim.

What Compensation And Benefits Can You Receive?

Once your SSD claim is approved, you can finally breathe a little easier.

You’ll receive monthly payments, which are based on your past earnings. The amount varies depending on how much you’ve paid into the system over the years. For many people, it’s a critical source of income.

You could also receive:

  • Back pay, dating all the way back to when you first became disabled (minus a five-month waiting period)
  • Medicare coverage after two years of receiving SSD benefits
  • Access to additional support programs or state-level assistance, depending on your situation

If you’ve got kids under 18, they might even qualify for benefits of their own based on your disability. A lot of people don’t even realize that’s an option!

Contact A South Jersey Social Security Disability Attorney Today

You don’t have to go through it alone. 

The South Jersey Social Security Disability lawyers at Castellani Law Firm are here to take the stress off your plate and guide you step by step. From the first phone call to the final decision, we’re by your side, answering questions, handling paperwork, and fighting to get you the benefits you need.

So if you’re thinking about applying, already applied and got denied, or just not sure what to do next - give us a call. We’ll talk things through and help you figure out the best path forward.

Call us today at 609-641-2288 for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved for SSD?

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Most people get a decision within 3 to 6 months after applying. If your application is denied and you file an appeal, the process can take a year or more. Delays often depend on how long it takes to gather medical records or schedule hearings.

Can I work part-time while applying for SSD?

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Yes, you can work part-time while applying, but your income must stay below Social Security’s limit. In 2025, that's $1,550 per month, or $2,590 if you’re legally blind. Earning over that amount could cause your claim to be denied, even if you're disabled.

What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?

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SSDI is based on your past work and the Social Security taxes you've paid. SSI is a needs-based program for people with very limited income and resources. 

Both provide monthly benefits, but they have different rules and eligibility requirements.

Do I need a lawyer to file my application?

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You can apply without a lawyer, but mistakes or missing details can lead to denial. A Social Security Disability lawyer in South Jersey helps you build a stronger case, gather the right documents, and handle appeals if needed. 

Plus, you don’t pay anything unless your claim is approved.

What happens if I miss the appeal deadline?

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You have 60 days to appeal after your denial notice is issued. If you miss that window, the SSA may close your case and make you start from scratch. In rare cases, you can request an extension, but it has to be for a very good reason.

- Achievements

Leaders In The Legal Industry

With over 35 years of legal experience, Castellani Law Firm family of attorneys are proud to be recognized by respected legal organizations. These honors reflect our commitment to delivering trusted, results-driven representation to individuals and families across New Jersey & Pennsylvania.

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Please click on the awards  to learn about the selection methodology for each.
*No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.

Please reference the individual accolade selection process disclaimers which are located at the bottom of this page.

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