SSDI Benefits
Based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. I’ll evaluate your eligibility and build the strongest possible case.
Learn about SSDI →Social Security Disability Attorney — Tyler & East Texas
You deserve someone fighting for you.
When Social Security denies your claim, it can feel like the system is working against you. With over 25 years of experience, I help East Texans get the disability benefits they’ve earned — and I personally handle every case.
Cheyenne Allen, Attorney at Law
Understanding Your Options
What types of disability benefits are available?
The Social Security Administration oversees two disability programs. Knowing which applies to your situation is the first step — and I can help you figure that out at no cost.
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) — based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. Financial resources don’t affect eligibility.
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income) — for people with limited income and resources, including those who haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI.
- You may qualify for both programs simultaneously depending on your circumstances.
Don’t Give Up
Your claim was denied. That’s not the end.
Most initial Social Security disability claims are denied — often for technical reasons that have nothing to do with the severity of your condition. A denial letter is not a final answer.
- You have 60 days from your denial to file an appeal — don’t wait
- Approval rates increase significantly with experienced legal representation
- I handle every phase: reconsideration, ALJ hearings, and Appeals Council
- If we don’t win, you owe nothing
25+
Years Experience
5.0
Google Rating
Solo
Practice Since 2007
$0
Fee Until You Win
How I Can Help
Social Security Disability is all I do.
I focus exclusively on Social Security Disability so you get specialized expertise — not a generalist handling disability cases on the side.
SSI Benefits
Needs-based support for disabled individuals with limited income and resources, even without sufficient work history.
Learn about SSI →Denied Claims & Appeals
Most initial claims are denied. I handle the full appeals process from reconsideration through ALJ hearings.
Appeal a denial →Disability Hearings
A hearing before an Administrative Law Judge is your best opportunity. I prepare you thoroughly and represent you fully.
Hearing representation →Widow & Survivor Benefits
Social Security disability benefits for surviving spouses and children. I’ll help you understand your options and navigate the process.
Survivor benefits →Conditions We Handle
Heart conditions, orthopedic injuries, cancer, mental illness, chronic pain, neurological disorders and more.
See all conditions →Client Reviews
What clients are saying on Google.
5.0
Google Reviews
Recent Client
★★★★★
I can’t express how grateful I am for the exceptional service I received. From my first consultation I felt at ease — she took the time to listen and provided clear advice tailored to my situation. Always available throughout the entire process.
Verified Client
★★★★★
Sincere, honest, returns calls quickly and knows her craft. Communicated all the steps accurately and was available when needed. Highly recommending Cheyenne Allen for help with the Social Security system.
East Texas Client
★★★★★
Very helpful, very dependable. She will let you know step by step what needs to be done and how. If you need help with anything, she will take her time with you. I was very satisfied — Cheyenne is definitely the attorney to handle your case.
About Cheyenne
A Tyler attorney who truly knows this law.
I’ve spent my entire legal career focused on one thing: helping East Texans get the Social Security disability benefits they deserve. Since founding my solo practice in 2007 — after eight years at a larger disability firm — I’ve guided hundreds of clients through a system that can feel overwhelming and impersonal.
When you call my office, you talk to me. Not a case manager. Not a paralegal. Me — every time.
1993B.A. Political Science, Texas A&M University
1999J.D. cum laude, Texas Wesleyan University School of Law — Editor, Texas Wesleyan Law Review
2007Founded solo disability law practice, Tyler TX
NowMember, NOSSCR & FOSSCR (Fifth Circuit Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives)
How It Works
Simple steps. Serious results.
I handle the complexity so you can focus on your health.
Free Consultation
We talk through your situation, medical history, and work record. No charge, no obligation.
I File Your Claim
I handle all paperwork and submissions to Social Security on your behalf.
Build Your Case
I gather medical records, work with your doctors, and develop the strongest presentation of your disability.
Hearing & Decision
I represent you before the Administrative Law Judge and fight for the benefits you deserve.
You Get Paid
My fee comes from your back pay only — if we don’t win, you owe nothing.
Ready to talk? The consultation is free.
Don’t navigate the Social Security system alone. Call or contact me today — no pressure, no cost.
East Texas Disability Law
From the blog.
Common Questions
Answers to questions I hear every day.
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and payroll tax payments. SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. You may qualify for one or both — call me and I’ll explain which applies to you at no charge.
My claim was denied. Is it too late?
No — a denial is not the end. Most people are denied at the initial stage. You have 60 days to appeal. I handle the full appeals process including hearings before an Administrative Law Judge, where approval rates are significantly higher with experienced representation.
How much does it cost to hire you?
Nothing upfront. My fee is contingency-based — I only collect if we win. The fee is set by federal law and comes from a portion of your back pay. If we don’t win, you owe nothing.
Will I actually speak with you — not a paralegal?
Yes, always. I run a solo practice specifically so my clients can reach me directly. When you call, you talk to me. That’s a promise I make to every client and one I take seriously.
Can I still apply if I’ve never worked?
Yes. If you haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for SSI if your income and resources fall below certain limits. Contact me and we’ll review your options at no charge.
How long does the process take?
Initial decisions typically take 9–12 months. If you need to appeal to a hearing, expect an additional 12–24 months in Texas. I know that feels like a long time — I’ll keep you informed at every stage so you’re never left wondering where your case stands.
See All Frequently Asked Questions
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