Qualifying for Social Security Disability

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from working, you could be entitled to disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). While you might be aware that benefits could be available to you, applying for them takes time and attention to detail since the application requires extensive information. 

Before the SSA approves an application for disability benefits, you must establish that you qualify to receive them. Your best option is to work with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer who can guide you through the process and protect your interests.

Attorney Robert Alston, Esq., and the team at The Disability Law Firm have been helping people in Dade City and surrounding areas of Florida seek the SSD benefits they deserve for more than two decades. Our firm strives to make every client feel like family. We communicate often and efficiently to ensure your questions are always answered and your concerns adequately addressed. Even after your case is resolved, our door remains open.

If you need help with your Social Security Disability application or have experienced a denial, The Disability Law Firm is ready to assist you. Contact us now for a free case evaluation. 

Disability Requirements for Social Security Disability Benefits in Dade City

If you wish to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, knowing if you meet the requirements is crucial. To qualify for these benefits, you must have: 

• Worked a job covered by Social Security and paid into the system
• A medical condition that falls within Social Security’s definition of a disability

Determining whether you qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security system can be complicated. It is best to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable lawyer if you have questions or concerns.

What Conditions Automatically Qualify You for Disability?

The Social Security Administration has a strict definition of “disabled.” You have a qualifying disability and may be eligible for disability benefits if:

• You cannot work because of your medical condition.
• You cannot do the work you previously performed and are not capable of adjusting to other work because of your medical condition.
• Your medical condition has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or ultimately result in death.

It is crucial to note that disability benefits are payable only for total disability lasting at least 12 months or resulting in death. It is not for partial or short-term disabilities.

The SSA provides a list of impairments that may qualify an individual for disability benefits.

These impairments include:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Special sense and speech impairments
• Respiratory disorders
• Impairments of the cardiovascular system
• Digestive system impairments
• Genitourinary disorders
• Hematological disorders
• Skin disorders
• Endocrine disorders
• Congenital disorders that affect multiple body systems
• Neurological disorders
• Mental disorders
• Cancer
• Immune system disorders

Specific medical criteria can determine whether an individual suffering from these or other impairments qualifies for Social Security Disability benefits. 

How to Maintain Your SSDI Benefits

In general, you will be able to maintain your SSDI benefits as long as your disability continues. However, the law requires the Social Security Administration to occasionally review cases to determine if recipients continue to qualify for disability benefits.

The frequency of review will depend on your particular medical condition and whether improvement is possible or likely. The SSA will review every six to 18 months if medical improvement is expected. If improvement is possible, reviews occur approximately every three years. If medical improvement is not likely, reviews will happen only every seven years.

Usually, if your health has improved and you can go back to work, your Social Security Disability benefits will likely cease.  

How Do I Apply for Benefits?

If you become disabled, it is best to apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as possible.

To apply, you can fill out an online disability application on the Social Security website. The application will ask about your medical condition and disability. Once completed, you can mail the application with supporting documents or take it to your nearest Social Security office.

To ensure your application is complete and correctly filled out, it is best to work with an attorney before submitting your claim.

What Information Do I Need to Apply for Benefits?

To apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you will need crucial information for your application. This information includes:

• Your Social Security number or permanent resident number if born outside the U.S.
• The type of duty and branch, along with the period of service, if you were in the military
• Information for direct deposit
• Information regarding any workers’ compensation claims you have previously filed
• Contact information for an individual familiar with your medical condition
• Thorough information regarding your illness or impairment
• Contact information of healthcare providers who have treated you
• Information for medical tests you have had
• Names of medicines you are taking
• Information for jobs you have worked in the last 15 years

The SSA requires plenty of information, so having all of your relevant documents on hand when filling out your application is beneficial. An attorney can help you collect and organize the information to ensure your application is complete and accurate, which could improve your chances of approval.

What Documents Do I Need to Provide?

Along with your complete application, you will need to provide certain documents, including:

• Birth certificate
• Your W-2 or federal income tax return from the previous year
• Medical documentation regarding your condition
• Proof of any temporary or permanent workers’ compensation benefits you have received

Keep in mind certain documents, including your birth certificate, will need to be original. The SSA will accept copies of other documents, like tax forms or medical documents.

Contact Our Experienced Dade City Social Security Disability Lawyer Today

The Disability Law Firm provides knowledgeable legal counsel to those seeking Social Security Disability benefits. Call us or reach out to us online to discuss whether you may qualify and how our team of experienced SSD legal professionals could help you seek the benefits you need and deserve. Our consultations are always 100% free and confidential.