Initial applications
SSDI and SSI claim support from the beginning. We apply on your behalf.
Advocacy Without Barriers, LLC provides compassionate, ASL-accessible representation for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and Deaf+ individuals seeking Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI/SSI).
Services
Focused support for Social Security Disability claims, with accessible communication from first contact through appeals.
SSDI and SSI claim support from the beginning. We apply on your behalf.
We will represent you through the appeals process.
Clear, compassionate, and communication-focused support in ASL and written English.
About

Photo credit: Jessica Madsen Photography
FAQ
Answers to common questions about working together. If you don't see what you're looking for, reach out directly.
I assist with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims, from initial applications through Social Security’s administrative review process, excluding Federal Court appeals.
No. While my practice focuses on providing accessible, ASL-first representation for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and Deaf+ individuals, I also work with Deaf, hearing, and CODA parents or legal guardians who are applying for or assisting with Social Security Disability benefits on behalf of a child or another claimant. Direct communication in ASL is available throughout the representation process, with VRS available when needed.
Yes. I work with Deaf, hearing, and CODA parents or legal guardians who use ASL and are applying for or assisting with Social Security Disability benefits on behalf of a child or another claimant. Direct communication in ASL is available throughout the representation process, with VRS available when needed.
Yes. If you use ASL, you can communicate with me directly via VP or Zoom without having to go through VRS to discuss your case.
Yes. Social Security Disability is a federal program, so I provide representation nationwide. I am an independent disability representative and do not work for or represent the Social Security Administration (SSA). Services are provided remotely through VP, Zoom, VRS, text, or email.
A denial doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your claim. I can review where you are in the process and determine whether I can assist with the next stage, including reconsideration, a hearing, or further administrative review. I do not provide representation for Federal Court appeals.
Timeframes vary by case, but here is the general path a claim follows through Social Security's administrative review process:
Initial application
Apply for SSDI and/or SSI.
Typical decision timeframe: ~6 months
View Initial Disability Determination Processing TimesReconsideration
A new review of your claim by a different DDS adjudicative team.
Processing time varies
View Disability Reconsideration Processing TimesALJ hearing level
Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
Processing time varies
View Hearings Processing TimesAppeals Council review
The Appeals Council may deny review, decide the case, or return it to an ALJ.
Processing time varies
FEDERAL COURT APPEAL
The final stage, outside Social Security’s administrative review process.
Not represented by Advocacy Without Barriers
Yes. I work with clients at every stage, including initial applications — you don't need to wait for a denial before reaching out.
I work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there is no upfront cost to you. You don’t pay a representative fee unless your claim is successful and you receive backpay.
Under the standard process, the SSA must approve the fee. The fee is generally 25% of your backpay, up to a maximum of $9,200, whichever is less. SSA may change the maximum amount in the future.
If your backpay is $10,000, 25% is $2,500. The representative fee would be $2,500.
If your backpay is $40,000, 25% is $10,000. Because the current maximum fee is $9,200, the representative fee would be limited to $9,200.
We'll talk through your situation, where you are in the Social Security process, and your communication preferences, so we can determine together whether working together is a good fit. Scheduling a consultation doesn't automatically mean I've agreed to represent you.
Schedule a consultation through this website, or reach out directly by VP, text, or email using the contact information below.
I do not handle Social Security overpayment cases. However, I can provide information about your options and resources to help you move forward.
Yes. I provide in-person and virtual workshops and presentations on Social Security Disability topics for schools, nonprofits, state agencies, and organizations serving Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind communities, including hearing loss organizations.
Workshops can be tailored to your audience and presented directly in ASL. Please contact me to discuss your topic, audience, and scheduling needs.
Get in touch
Connect with us by VP, text, email, or schedule an appointment at a time that works for you.
Schedule
Use the calendar below to find a time that works for you and book a consultation directly.