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Our Social Security Disability Attorneys Are Here to Help Guide Your Claim

Many people suffer from disabling mental or physical conditions that affect their ability to work and earn an income. If you are in this position, you may qualify for disability benefits provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Suffering from a disability is stressful enough on its own, so you shouldn’t have to deal with the added stress of navigating the complex process of obtaining disability benefits. If you need to apply for benefits—or if your initial application was denied—our Social Security disability attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can help. Let us fight to secure the benefits you need. Contact our Social Security disability attorneys in Clearwater today.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Social Security Disability

Attorney from Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett P.A.

What Are the Different Types of Social Security Disability Benefits?

There are two main types of Social Security disability benefits:

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

You must be disabled to qualify for SSDI benefits. But this is not the only eligibility requirement. In addition to being disabled, you must have earned a certain number of work credits throughout your employment.

This means you must have paid enough to the SSA through payroll taxes or you will not qualify for SSDI benefits. SSI is a monthly stipend administered by the SSA. This program awards benefits to elderly, blind, and disabled people. It is funded by general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes. SSI is a needs-based program, which means it is only awarded to low-income individuals. In order to qualify for SSI, your income and financial resources must fall below a certain level. This level is adjusted on an annual basis.

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Why Was My Application For Disability Benefits Denied?

Applications for Social Security disability benefits are often denied. In fact, it’s estimated that about two-thirds of initial applications are denied. The SSA may deny an application for a number of different reasons, including:

  • You did not submit enough medical evidence to prove that you meet the SSA’s definition of disabled.
  • You have not earned enough work credits to qualify for SSD benefits.
  • You are making too much money to qualify.
  • You have not complied with your doctor’s orders, which if followed, could help you return to work.
  • You have not responded to the SSA’s requests for additional information during the application process.
  • Your condition is not severe enough to qualify as a disability.
  • Your condition is a short-term disability, which means it will not result in death and will last for less than 12 months.

If your application has been denied, contact our Social Security disability attorneys in Clearwater to begin the process of appealing the decision.

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FAQ

If I receive a denial and disagree with social security’s initial decision, what can I do?

How can I find out if my condition is eligible?

How much does it cost?

If I get Social Security disability benefits and reach full retirement age, will I then receive retirement benefits?

Can I return to work while getting Social Security disability benefits?

Will my disability benefits be reduced if I get workers’ compensation or other public disability benefits?

If I receive a denial and disagree with social security’s initial decision, what can I do?

You can appeal most determinations and decisions about whether you can get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or if they change your benefit amount.

How can I find out if my condition is eligible?

The best way to determine whether your condition is eligible for Social Security Disability is to speak with us. You can also review the SSA website, which defines different disabilities and lists qualifying impairments.

How much does it cost?

In Florida, a Social Security disability attorney's fee is limited to 25% of the retroactive benefits you are awarded. This fee is capped at $6,000.00, so the fee is whichever is less.

If I get Social Security disability benefits and reach full retirement age, will I then receive retirement benefits?

No. Social Security disability benefits automatically change to retirement benefits when disability beneficiaries are fully retired. The law does not allow a person to simultaneously receive both benefits on one earnings record.

Can I return to work while getting Social Security disability benefits?

Yes, special rules allow you to work without risking your benefits.

Will my disability benefits be reduced if I get workers’ compensation or other public disability benefits?

If you receive workers' compensation or other public disability benefit payments, your Social Security benefits for you and your family may be reduced. However, disability payments from private sources, such as a private pension or insurance benefits, do not affect your Social Security disability benefits.

What Should I Do If My Social Security Disability Application is Denied?

The first step in the appeals process is filing a Request for Reconsideration. During this stage, another disability determinations officer will conduct a review of your application to determine if you are entitled to benefits.

Most claims are denied again during this stage. If your claim is denied, the next step in the appeals process is a disability hearing.

You may have to wait between 18 to 24 months to get a hearing before an administrative law judge. Once your hearing is scheduled, it is important to gather all of your updated medical records, pharmacy reports and any documents showing a change in your condition. It is also important to seek legal representation from an attorney before the hearing if you haven’t already done so.

Why? The administrative law judge presiding over your hearing may require you to put your arguments in writing and provide additional information as to why they should grant your request for SSI or SSD. Our Social Security disability lawyers in Clearwater know how to craft a compelling argument that clearly outlines your case and the evidence that supports it. We have the knowledge and experience that you need to win your appeal and obtain the disability benefits you deserve.

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Contact Our Disability Benefit Attorneys in Clearwater Now to Schedule Your Free Consultation

Don’t face the challenge of fighting for SSD or SSI benefits alone. If you are in need of disability benefits, turn to the Social Security disability attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett for help. With over 125 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys know how to navigate through the complex process of applying for benefits and appealing denials. We are committed to helping you win benefits as quickly as possible. To schedule a free consultation regarding your case, call our law firm at 727-219-2272 or fill out the form on this website.

A lawyer at Carlson Meissner.

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