I disagree with LIT LOVE almost 100% other than the Unsuccessful Work Attempt. MTBI based SSDI can be a long slow process, even with an attorney so by the time the ALJ hears the case, plenty of back pay has accumulated. It took well over a year to get the hearing. Almost three years to the day from first application to approval. The maximum SSDI attorney fee is usually based on only 18 to 24 months of disability. My attorney earned her maximum fee from only 16 months of back pay. Because we were well past her maximum fee based on back pay, she did not fight for a higher benefit that I deserved. Getting me a better benefit would not have earned her a penny more. I got stiffed for thousands more in back pay and $150 a month more in permanent benefit.