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Disability Benefit Advocacy by Carlson Meissner & Hayslett

The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two disability benefit programs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD). Both of these programs were established to provide benefits to people who are unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental disability. But unfortunately, many people who have a legitimate need for these benefits are denied by the SSA. If your application has been denied—or if you need help with the initial application process—seek legal representation at once. Our Social Security disability attorneys in St. Petersburg at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett will work tirelessly to ensure you are awarded the benefits you are entitled to by law.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Social Security Disability

Attorney from Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett P.A.

Who Qualifies For Social Security Disability Benefits?

You must meet the SSA’s definition of “disabled” in order to qualify for either SSI or SSD benefits. This means you must suffer from a mental or physical condition that:

  • Prevents you from working, and
  • Has lasted at least a year or is expected to either result in death or continue for at least a year.

Being disabled does not mean that you will automatically qualify for SSD or SSI benefits.

SSI is a needs-based program, so you will only qualify for these benefits if you are a disabled individual with limited income and resources. SSD is not a needs-based program, but you will only qualify for these benefits if you have earned enough work credits. These credits are earned by paying money to the SSA through payroll taxes over the course of your employment.

The rules regarding eligibility for these benefits are complex, which is why it’s best to discuss your case with our attorneys to find out if you qualify.

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Why Would My Disability Claim Be Denied?

If your disability claim has been denied, you’re not alone. In fact, the SSA only approves about one-third of initial disability claims, so there’s a good chance that your claim will be denied. The SSA may deny your claim for a number of reasons, including:

  • You did not provide enough medical evidence to prove that you suffer from a disabling condition.
  • You earn too much money to qualify.
  • You do not have enough work credits to qualify for SSD.
  • You did not cooperate with the SSA’s requests for additional information during the application review process.
  • You failed to follow your doctor’s orders.
  • Your disability is not expected to result in death or last for longer than 12 months.

Don’t let a denial stop you from fighting for the disability benefits you deserve. If your claim has been denied, contact our experienced Social Security disability lawyers in St. Petersburg right away.

A lawyer at Carlson Meissner.

What Can I Do If My Disability Claim Was Denied?

You have 60 days to file an appeal, so it’s important to seek legal representation as soon as possible so you don’t miss this deadline. Our attorneys have guided countless clients through the complex appeals process, which consists of these four steps:

Reconsideration

A disability examinations officer will conduct another review of your application to determine if you qualify for benefits.

Hearing

You will be given the opportunity to present your case to an administrative law judge, who will decide if you qualify for benefits.

Appeals Council Review

If the judge does not rule in your favor, you can ask the Appeals Council to review your case.

Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council does not choose to review your case—or agrees with the judge’s decision—you can take your appeal to federal court.

This is your one chance to fight for the benefits you deserve. Your future is at stake, which is why you should turn to our trusted attorneys for help. We will stand by your side through the complex appeals process, fighting for the benefits you deserve every step of the way. Let our team put their legal knowledge, resources, and decades of experience to work for you.

Arrange Your Free Consultation With Our St. Pete Social Security Disability Attorneys

If you are ready to apply for Social Security disability benefits—or if your initial claim has already been denied—speak to the skilled attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett. With over 125 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys know how to navigate the process of filing an initial claim and winning an appeal. Let us fight for the disability benefits you need and deserve. To schedule a free consultation regarding your case, call our law firm at 727-616-1210.

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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 decisions about your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) case. You may also file an appeal 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 at Carlson, Meissner, & Hayslette. You can also review the SSA website, which defines different disabilities and lists qualifying impairments.

How much does it cost?

A St. Petersburg 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.

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

Florida law does not allow a person to receive both benefits on one earnings record simultaneously. Social Security disability benefits automatically change to retirement benefits when disability beneficiaries are fully retired.

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

Yes. Particular circumstances allow you to work without risking your Social Security Disability 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 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.

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