About Kristi Ward Stephens — SSDI Houston Texas
Kristi Ward Stephens is an ssdi Houston attorney who has represented disability claimants for more than 26 years, both locally in Harris County and nationwide. Her practice is devoted exclusively to Social Security Disability Insurance and SSI claims. Because SSDI cases are federally governed, the firm handles hearings anywhere in the country from its Houston base.
The firm manages every stage: initial application, reconsideration, ALJ hearing, Appeals Council, and federal court review. Fees are set by federal statute at 25% of back pay up to a cap, so clients never pay out of pocket. Medical evidence gathering and vocational expert cross-examination are handled directly by the attorney.
What Clients Say
Reviewers describe the firm as deeply experienced, patient, and meticulous with medical records. Clients appreciate clear status updates during the long disability timeline. Many mention feeling truly heard rather than rushed, even across years-long cases.
SSDI Houston — Practice Areas & Services
- Initial SSDI applications and Supplemental Security Income claims.
- Reconsideration requests after initial denial.
- Administrative Law Judge hearings at Texas SSA hearing offices.
- Appeals Council and federal district court representation.
- Continuing disability reviews and overpayment defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an SSDI claim take in Houston?
Initial decisions typically come in 6 to 8 months. If denied, reconsideration adds another 4 to 6 months. Hearing-level decisions often take 12 to 18 months more. Total timelines from application to ALJ hearing commonly exceed 2 years in Houston.
What does an SSDI lawyer cost in Texas?
Federal law caps attorney fees at 25% of back pay, up to $7,200 in 2024 (indexed yearly). Fees are only paid if you win. There are no upfront costs, and fees are deducted directly from your award by SSA.
What are SSDI approval rates in Texas?
Texas is slightly above the national average at the initial application stage, ranking 13th nationally in 2024. Hearing approval rates vary by office — Dallas hearing offices are about 54%, while San Antonio runs closer to 47%. Good legal representation improves outcomes at every level.
Quick Facts: SSDI in Houston, Texas
- SSDI fee cap (2024): 25% of back pay, maximum $7,200 — Social Security Administration
- Texas initial-approval ranking (2024): 13th in the nation — SSA / Citizens Disability
- Hearing approval (Dallas): ~54%; (San Antonio) ~47% — SSA ODAR data


