Social Security Disability Lawyer in Tampa, FL

Name: Social Security Disability
Brand: Carlson Hayslett, P.A.
Rating: 4.9 (269 reviews)

Social Security Disability Lawyers Aggressively Pursuing Benefits For Clients in Tampa

Social Security Disability Overview

Who Is Eligible How to Apply If Application Is Denied When to Contact Attorney Why Choose Carlson, Meissner, Hayslett

Overcoming the Challenges of Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Tampa

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides two types of benefits to disabled individuals in the U.S.:

Social Security Disability Benefits (SSD)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

If you suffer from a mental or physical disability, you may qualify for these benefits. But the process of applying for benefits is incredibly frustrating and stressful, and sadly, the vast majority of initial applications are denied. Don’t face these challenges alone—let the Social Security disability attorneys in Tampa help you fight for the benefits you deserve.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Social Security Disability

Who Is Eligible For Disability Benefits?

There are different eligibility requirements for each type of disability benefits. To qualify for SSD, you must have paid enough into the SSA through payroll taxes to be considered an insured individual. You must also meet the SSA’s definition of disabled. To meet this definition, you must show:

You suffer from a mental or physical condition that has lasted for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death or last for over 12 months.
You cannot engage in any substantial gainful activity as a result of your disabling condition.

If you meet these conditions, you may qualify for SSD benefits. You have to meet the SSA’s definition of disabled in order to qualify for the SSI program, too. But in addition, you must show that you have limited financial resources and income to qualify. This is because the SSI program only provides benefits to low income individuals, so if your income or financial resources are over a certain limit, you will not qualify for this program.

How Can You Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits in Tampa?

The initial application can be completed at your local Social Security office or online at www.ssa.gov. Whether you apply in person or online, it is helpful to have lists of your medications and the doctors you have seen, as well as copies of all your medical records. A disability determinations officer will review your application once it has been submitted. After completing this review, the officer will either reject or accept the application. This process usually takes between 30 and 90 days.

Real Client Testimonial

Great disability attorneys! Highly recommended. Can’t say enough how pleased I was with their services.

L.B.

Schedule A Consultation

813-473-6132 Contact Us

What Happens If Your Application For Social Security Disability Benefits is Denied?

Most initial applications are denied. If your application is denied, the next step is to file a Request for Reconsideration. You can provide updated medical records to SSA when you submit this request.

You may also be asked to submit to an evaluation by a physician contracted by the SSA. This doctor will provide Social Security additional reports and comments regarding his or her opinion about your conditions and your ability to work.

A different disability determinations officer will review this information and determine whether or not you should be approved for benefits. This process also takes between 30 to 90 days in most cases. If you are denied in the Reconsideration stage, the next step in the process is to request a hearing. Currently, the wait to obtain a hearing is somewhere between 18 -24 months. Approximately two months prior to your hearing, you will receive a list of the exhibits that are contained in your file at Social Security.

It is your responsibility to provide thejudge who will be hearing your case with any new records prior to the hearing. Some judges also require written memos regarding the legal issues involved in your case. During the hearing, the judge will give you an opportunity to explain your case, call witnesses, and present evidence that shows you qualify for benefits. Then, the judge will decide whether or not you should be approved.

When Should You Contact A Social Security Disability Attorney?

An attorney can assist you with every step in the application process, beginning with the submission of the initial application. Hiring an attorney at this stage will ensure you submit the correct information and do not make any mistakes that could delay your case or affect your eligibility.

Although it is wise to hire an attorney during the initial application process, many people choose to wait until their application has been denied. If your application has been denied, seek legal representation before your hearing. We have the skills and knowledge to make sure that you are properly represented at the hearing. We know how to elicit testimony from you and any professionals hired by the Administration, including medical and vocational professionals. It is often the case that the issues in Social Security disability cases rise and fall on the skill and savvy of your attorney, so it is in your best interest to obtain competent representation at this stage.

Why Choose the Social Security Disability Attorneys at Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett in Tampa, Florida?

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when your claim is delayed or denied. At Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett, our Social Security Disability lawyers in Tampa bring more than 125 years of combined legal experience and are committed to helping clients navigate the claims process. Whether you are filing an initial application or appealing a denial, we will work to protect your rights and pursue the benefits you deserve.

Clients choose Carlson Hayslett, P.A. because we provide experienced legal representation with a personal approach. Our firm stands apart through:

Deep roots in the Tampa Bay legal community
Decades of experience representing clients before the Social Security Administration
A reputation for skilled advocacy and compassionate client service
Recognition from respected organizations such as Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, the Florida Justice
Association, and the Clearwater Bar Association

If you need help applying for or appealing Social Security Disability benefits, our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process. Call 727-219-2272 or complete our online contact form today to schedule your free consultation.

Other Case Types

Personal Injury Criminal Defense DUI Workers Compensation Premises Liability Car Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Truck Accidents