Episode Summary: In this informative episode, federal employment lawyer Eric L. Pines discusses the complexities of filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). He provides valuable insights into the application process, common reasons for denial, and tips for improving approval chances. The episode particularly focuses on the importance of medical documentation and understanding the strict criteria for SSDI approval.   Key Timestamps: 00:09 - Introduction and episode overview 00:53 - Basic process of filing SSDI claims 01:08 - Eligibility requirements and application process 02:40 - Common reasons for SSDI claim denials 03:37 - Tips for avoiding application pitfalls 04:54 - Role of SSA's Disability Determination Services 08:26 - Compassionate Allowance process for terminal illnesses 09:07 - Tips for expediting claims 11:50 - Comparison between federal disability and social security disability   About the Show: "Empowering Workers" is a podcast featuring Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer, mediator, and attorney business coach. The show focuses on federal employees' rights, disability claims, employment law, and Social Security Disability matters. Eric represents federal employees and serves as in-house counsel for over 50,000 federal employees through his work as a federal employee labor union representative.