The state of Florida is home to more than 21 million residents, and as of 2020 according to the Social Security Administration, 575,272 of those residents are entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. Disability benefits are intended to assist people with a disabling condition that prevents them from working. Contacting a Social Security Disability attorney at Patriot Legal Group can help you to receive disability benefits.
Many people are unsure about whether they are eligible for these payments. If you are curious about whether you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, contact a knowledgeable social security disability attorney to discuss your circumstances.
The knowledgeable attorneys at Patriot Legal Group proudly serve clients in all of Central Florida. Our team knows how to fight effectively to secure the disability benefits that are rightfully yours.
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits in Orlando, Florida
All Social Security benefits are distributed by the U.S. federal government. However, Florida’s Division of Disability Determinations applies the federal rules to decide whether a particular applicant qualifies for these benefits by confirming applicants’ medical and economic eligibility.
Almost five million Floridians report having a disabling medical condition. This number represents nearly 25% of the state’s population.
Defining “Disability”
Not every type of illness or injury qualifies someone to receive disability benefits. According to the Social Security Administration, you could be considered “disabled” if you:
- Cannot perform your former job due to illness or injury and
- You cannot adjust to new work due to a condition and
- Your medical condition has (or will) last over a year
When you contact an Orlando Social Security Disability attorney, they will review the facts of your case to determine whether you qualify. The Social Security Administration has a predetermined list of conditions and symptoms that automatically qualify as disabilities.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits
Because Social Security Disability benefits are overseen by the federal government, the requirements for eligibility are determined at the national level. First, applicants need to meet certain non-medical criteria.
Only those who have worked a sufficient amount of time are eligible. Typically, applicants must have earned 40 credits to be eligible for benefits, and 20 of these credits must have been earned during the past decade.
Applicants are also required to provide evidence of a disabling condition. This condition must meet the SSA’s criteria for “total disability.”
For help applying for Social Security Disability benefits, reach out to a knowledgeable Social Security attorney. A skilled lawyer at Patriot Legal Group will review your employment and medical history and walk you through the application process.
Why are some applicants denied
social security disability benefits?
Not everyone who applies for Social Security Disability benefits receives them. Unfortunately, most people are denied the first time that they apply.
Oftentimes, these denials are avoidable with the help of a Social Security attorney. A legal professional can help you to avoid the common mistakes that first-time applicants make.
Some of the most common reasons that Social Security Disability applications are denied include:
Applicants Make Too Much
Many people who apply for these benefits earn too much money to qualify. This is known as surpassing the limit for “substantial gainful activity.”
If an applicant is still earning money, they may be considered ineligible for disability benefits.
Disability Is Not Severe Enough
Only those with severe conditions are considered to be eligible for benefits. If an applicant’s disability is classified as minor by the SSA, they may deny the claim for benefits.
Drug or Alcohol Involvement
In some cases, drug or alcohol use or addiction contributes to a disabling condition. If this is the case, the SSA may decide that the applicant does not qualify for benefits.
Failure to Follow Medical Advice
When you have been injured and are unable to work, it is critical to follow your physician’s instructions for care. Those who do not follow prescribed medical therapies for their condition may become ineligible to receive benefits.
General Application Mistakes
Unfortunately, some applicants are denied the benefits that they deserve because of simple application mistakes. When you contact a knowledgeable Social Security benefits attorney, they will ensure that your application is completed properly.
This will give you the best chance of recovering payments to help you in the wake of your disabling injury or illness.
Contact a Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney in Orlando Today!
The process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Florida can be confusing and frustrating. That is why it is critical to speak with a skilled lawyer when you need help securing benefits.
If you have been denied the payments that you rightfully deserve, reach out to the skilled team at Patriot Legal Group. Our compassionate attorneys understand that disabled individuals deserve to recover the benefits that they are due.
Whether you need to apply or appeal a decision, our firm can help. Contact Patriot Legal Group today to schedule a free case review.
