EDPNA stands for Eligible for Direct Payment Non- Attorney. It is a professional credential granted by SSA. It allows for qualified, non attorney representatives to represent disability claimants and receive fee payments directly from SSA.

To achieve EDPNA status, advocates must pass a comprehensive, federally written examination covering complex SSA regulations, hold a college degree, clear a federal background check and complete annual continuing education.

Both can fully represent you, file appeals, gather evidence and present your case at hearings before an Administrative Law Judge. The primary difference is their educational path. Attorneys hold a general law degree while an EDPNA is a specialized expert who focuses exclusively on Social Security Disability Law.

No, both EDPNAS and attorneys operate under the exact same federal rules. Both charge a contingency fee capped by Federal Law. The SSA handles payment for both directly out of your back pay.

Currently, under Federal Law, the fee is 25% of past due benefits, capped at $9200. No fee at all unless your claim is approved and no upfront cost to start your case.

We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we do it that sets us apart.

You can reach us anytime via our contact page, email or by telephone. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.

For your first appointment, you will need the following information:

• One form of ID- driver’s license, State ID or birth certificate

• Medical Conditions and List of Medical Providers- Names, Addresses, Phone Numbers of all doctors, hospitals and clinics you visited.

• List of Current Medications- including dosages and any side effects you experience.

• Work History- A detailed list of jobs you held over the past 5 years, including job titles and basic duties.

• Recent Correspondence- Any letters, denial notices or documentation you have received from SSA.

SSDI and SSI are both federal programs that provide cash benefits to individuals with disabilities, but that have different eligibility requirements:

SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and the number of work credits you have earned. Generally, an individual needs a total of 40 credits over their lifetime to qualify for benefits. Known as the 20/40 Rule, individuals age 31 and older, requires working 5 out of the last 10 years to qualify for benefits.

SSI is a needs-based program and eligibility depends on strict financial limits regarding monthly income and personal assets (up to $2000/month individual or $3000/month for married couple).

SSDI beneficiaries automatically qualify for Medicare after receiving cash benefits for 24 months.

SSI beneficiaries typically qualify for Medicaid immediately upon approval depending on the state.

As of 2026, the national average wait time to receive a hearing date is approximately 8 months from the time your Request for Hearing is filed. The total processing time from the initial request to a final decision notice typically ranges 1.5 to 2 years.

This lengthy timeframe is the result of a backlog of cases, high volume of appeal requests and the meticulous nature of the review process. The administrative law judge must review all medical charts and records, schedule expert vocational witnesses and coordinate schedules.

Your case will be transferred to the local Social Security field office for your new zip code. If your case is already at the hearing level, it will be reassigned to the closest regional Office of Hearing Operations.

As your advocate, I will work to ensure that your case is properly transferred to the correct local office and that there are no unnecessary delays in the processing of your claim.

Yes, because SSA disability is a federal program, an EDPNA can legally represent clients living anywhere in the United States. I can seamlessly manage your electronic file, file your appeals online and attend your hearing via phone or video conference, ensuring you keep the consistent, dedicated representation you started with.