Four Things To Be Aware Of When Filing A Florida Long-Term Disability Claim

Disability benefits available through the Social Security Administration (SSA) can help offset lost wages you suffer in the event an injury, illness, or chronic health condition prevents you from working for a year or longer. These benefits are often a lifeline, helping to ensure disabled people and their families are provided for. However, it is important to be aware of the following when completing your application:

1. Over two-thirds of all claims are denied.

The approval rate for first-time filers seeking Social Security disability benefits is dismal. According to the latest SSA reports, 67 percent of first-time claims are denied. The good news is that many are approved after filing an appeal.

2. You must have a qualifying condition or be otherwise unemployable given your medical conditions, age, education and work experience.

One of the most common reasons for disability benefit denials is not having a qualifying condition. Check to see if yours falls under the SSA listing of impairments and meets all other guidelines.

3. You must have earned the required work credits.

In order to obtain Social Security disability benefits, you must have the required 40 work credits. These are earned on the job and up to four per year. They stretch back through your career, but at least ten must have been from in the past 10 years.

4. You must provide medical documentation.

You must have a firm diagnosis from your doctor, explaining your condition and how it prevents you from working. You will also need copies of all test results and other medical records detailing any procedures, medications, physical therapy, or other treatments received. Keeping a disability journal that explains how your condition impacts other areas of your life is helpful as well.

Let Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer Help You Get The Benefits You Are Entitled To

Unfortunately, even if you have a qualifying condition and complete all other SSA requirements, disability benefits may be denied. Farrell Disability Law has decades of experience helping clients in these cases. We can review your application, reasons for the denial, and provide trusted, local legal representation in filing an appeal.

Keep in mind that if approved on appeal, benefits may be awarded on a retroactive basis from when you first applied. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. To protect your financial security and that of your family, call or contact our Florida Social Security disability lawyer online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/disability

ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/di_asr/2020/sect04.html

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

Hurdles People With Chronic Health Conditions Face In Obtaining Social Security Disability

According to the American Hospital Association, over 130 million people suffer from chronic health conditions-over half the population. Some of the most common include heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, asthma or other respiratory diseases, and autoimmune disorders.

When your condition prevents you from working, Social Security disability benefits help offset lost income. Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reports that less than one-third of all filed claims get approved. Common hurdles you may face include:

• Earning the required work credits: Work credits are awarded a maximum of four times per year. You must have at least 40 credits, ten of which were earned in the past ten years.
• Having an approved condition: Your condition must fall under the SSA’s Listing Of Impairments.
• Have medical evidence documenting your condition: This is the most common reason for denials. You need to thoroughly document your condition, as well as the impact it has on your life.
• Be unable to work for a year or longer: You must have a doctor certify that your condition prevents you from working and is likely to last a year or more.
• Comply with all SSA requests: This includes answering lengthy questionnaires, responding to all communications, providing additional evidence as required, and submitting to a physical from one of their medical providers.

Getting A Disability Claim For Chronic Conditions Approved

Considering the complex requirements for obtaining Social Security disability benefits and the large number of claims that get denied, it is important to get legal support throughout the process.

Our Florida long-term disability lawyer has extensive experience in dealing with the SSA. We can assist you in submitting your claim, providing the required documentation, and getting your benefits approved in the quickest amount of time possible. If you have already been denied disability, we can guide you in filing an appeal. Tips we recommend clients follow include:

• Request copies of all your medical records, including visit notes, test results, and treatment outcomes.
• Make sure your file contains a firm medical diagnosis and a complete list of symptoms.
• Document any time off and keep copies showing lost wages you suffered.
• Keep a journal detailing how your condition impacts your activities of daily living and your ability to enjoy your former hobbies and activities.

Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer Today

Obtaining Social Security disability benefits when you have a chronic health condition is difficult. Get the legal guidance you need to avoid a denial and reach out to Farrell Disability Law. Call or contact our Florida Social Security disability lawyer online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

aha.org/system/files/content/00-10/071204_H4L_FocusonWellness.pdf

ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/di_asr/2020/sect04.html

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

Determining Whether Impacts On Functional Abilities Qualifies You For Disability Benefits

Benefits available through the Social Security Administration (SSA) can help to offset lost income in the event you suffer a disabling physical, mental, or cognitive condition that prevents you from working for a year or longer. You may be entitled to these benefits provided you worked for an employer who deducted Social Security taxes from your paycheck, have been recently employed, and earned the required 40 work credits.

In evaluating your application, the SSA will look closely at functional abilities. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) outlines the five-step process used in making a determination of whether functional impacts qualify you for long-term disability benefits:

1. Whether you are currently engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).

Substantial gainful activity refers to your current level of disability and how it impacts your income. Provided your condition prevents you from earning more than $1,470 per month or $2,460 if you are legally blind (the limits for 2023), you may be entitled to benefits.

2. Whether there is medical evidence that you suffer a significant condition.

Medical records play an important role in getting approved for long-term disability benefits. You must have a firm diagnosis of your condition, along with documents showing any current and prior testing and treatments, along with medications you may be taking.

3. Whether your condition qualifies under the SSA’s Listing Of Impairments.

To be considered disabled and qualify for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI), you must have a condition that falls under the SSA’s Listing of Impairments. Individual injuries and illnesses are detailed under broad categories, including musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory ailments, conditions that impact the cardiovascular system, and digestive, sensory, or skin disorders.

4. Whether your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) allows you to perform relevant work.

Residual functional capacity refers to the degree to which you are disabled and how your condition impacts specific abilities that may be required as part of your job.

5. Vocational factors and transferable skills that would allow you to seek other employment. 

In addition to considering whether your condition prevents you from performing tasks at your current job, the SSA will determine whether it prevents you from performing other types of work relevant to today’s economy.

Let Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer Help You

Farrell Disability Law acts as a strong legal ally on your side, helping you qualify for disability payments. We can also help if a previously filed claim has been denied. To get the benefits you are entitled to, call or contact our Orlando or Jacksonville office online and request a consultation with our Florida Social Security disability lawyer today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545535/

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

Basic Information Needed When Applying For Social Security Disability In Florida 

If you suffer a chronic health condition, a serious illness, or disabling injuries, you may be entitled to disability benefits in Florida through the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, be aware that the application approval process is lengthy and can take a year or longer.

Unfortunately, the SSA is also known for routinely denying benefits. As many as two-thirds of all claims get denied. Failure to provide the required information is one of the most common causes. Basic information needed includes:

• Your birth certificate;
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if not born in the U.S.;
• Your social security number;
• Social security numbers for any current or former spouses and your children;
• Military discharge papers if you served prior to 1968;
• Information detailing any Social Security benefits, Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income you or other family members receive;
• Proof of any workers’ compensation benefits you received;
• Copies of paystub, W-2 statements, and recently filed tax returns. 

Documents Needed To Prove Long-Term Disability 

To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, you need to have earned the required amount of work credits. You will also need to prove you have a qualifying condition, as defined by the SSA’s Listing of Impairments. This is likely the biggest obstacle you will face. Documents that can help support your claim include:

• Statements from your doctor confirming explaining your diagnosis and confirming you have a disability that prevents you from working for a year or longer;
• Medical records, showing previous care and how your condition has progressed over time;
• Test results, treatment outcomes, referrals to specialists, and notes from physical therapists;
• A list of all current and prior medications;
• Statements from your employer, explaining how your condition impacts you on your job;
• Statements from you and your family detailing the impact your condition has on other areas of your life.

Get Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer On Your Side 

Long-term disability benefits can help make up for lost income in the event you are unable to work for a year or longer. Unfortunately, getting your claim approved is likely to be a challenge. To prevent denials, or to appeal a prior denied claim, get Farrell Disability Law on your side.

Our Florida Social Security disability lawyer has extensive experience handling these claims and can help you get the total benefits you are entitled to. Call or contact us online and request a consultation in our Jacksonville or Orlando office today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

ssa.gov/forms/ssa-16.html#:~:text=W%2D2%20forms(s),and%20recent%20test%20results%3B%20and

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

Determining How A Long-Term Disability Impacts Your Ability To Work 

Long-term disabilities can happen for a variety of reasons, leaving you unable to work. Disability benefits help make up for lost income. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), more than two million people apply for these benefits each year.

There are exacting standards for getting approved and over 40 percent of all claims get denied. In addition to proving you have a qualifying condition, you will also need to show how it impacts your ability to perform substantial work. This is where the Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form comes in.

This form is designed to assess how your disability impacts common work-related tasks and must be completed and submitted with your long-term disability claim. Through a series of questions, it shows whether you are capable of the following types of work:

• Sedentary work, which involves lifting no more than 10 pounds with walking or standing required only occasionally.
• Light work, which requires more walking and standing, lifting up to 20 pounds, and carrying objects totaling ten pounds.
• Medium work, which involves frequent walking and standing, as well as carrying objects up to 50 pounds.
• Heavy work, in which you are capable of standing and walking for long periods and lifting or carrying objects weighing 50 pounds or more.

Filling Out Your RFC Form

In filling out an RFC form, you need to provide evidence documenting your answers, including the results of any medical testing and statements from your doctor. Questions you are asked include:

• Are you capable of pulling, pushing, lifting, or carrying objects?
• What are your weight limits for each of these above tasks?
• How frequently can you perform each type of task?
• If you are unable to push or pull objects, is it due to limitations in your upper or lower extremities?
• Are you able to stand and walk as part of a job?
• How many hours are you able to sit, such as behind a desk, provided you have normal breaks? 

Your answers along with documentation showing you have a qualifying condition play a major role in determining whether you are approved for Social Security disability benefits.

Speak With Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

Social Security frequently denies disability applications, often due to failure to properly fill out the required forms. To get your benefits in the quickest amount of time possible, reach out to Farrell Disability Law. Call or contact us online and request a consultation to speak with our Florida Social Security disability lawyer in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/oact/STATS/dibStat.html

ssa.gov/OP_Home/rulings/di/02/SSR83-10-di-02.html

secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms/images/SSA4/G-SSA-4734-U8-1.pdf

Common Conditions That Qualify For Social Security Disability In Florida

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four Florida residents suffers from some type of disability. When this impacts your ability to work for a year or longer, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) acts as a safety net, protecting the financial security of people who suffer a qualifying medical condition that prevents them from working for a year or longer. Common types of conditions that may make you eligible for benefits include:

1. Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue Disorders

These are among the most common causes of long-term disabilities and impact millions of people each year. They involve disorders impacting the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility. Common types of disorders include arthritis, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and diseases such as fibromyalgia.

2. Nervous System Disorders

The nervous system is a major channel of communication throughout the body. These types of disorders impact the brain, spinal cord, nerves, or other sensory organs and tissues, resulting in numbness, tingling, or other unpleasant sensations and causing potential partial or complete paralysis. They can occur due to Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, or other disorders, and as a result of illnesses such as meningitis.

3. Circulatory System Disorders

The circulatory system is designed to move blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body. Impairments in the cardiovascular system, which includes the heart, veins, and arteries, can cause potentially life-threatening symptoms. Heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) can all result in permanent disabilities.

4. Respiratory System Disorders

These impact the lungs and pulmonary system, preventing the intake of oxygen and its flow throughout the body. Common respiratory disorders that may make you eligible for Social Security disability benefits include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer.

5. Mental Health Disorders

Mental health disorders may be genetic or acquired and can have serious impacts on your ability to work. If you suffer from conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, or schizophrenia, you may be entitled to Social Security disability payments.

Reach Out To Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

At Farrell Disability Law, we help people who are unable to work get the disability payments they are entitled to. For trusted legal guidance in filing a claim or appealing denied benefits, reach out to our Florida Social Security disability lawyer and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office.

Sources:

cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/impacts/florida.html

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

Qualifications To Receive Social Security Disability Benefits In Florida

Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) is a national program that is funded through your federal taxes. It provides up to two-thirds of your lost income in the event a long-term disability prevents you from working for a year or longer. In order to obtain these benefits, you must meet two requirements:

• Prove you have a qualifying condition: Under the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments, a variety of physical, emotional, and cognitive health conditions are covered. You will need statements from your doctor and medical records documenting your condition.
• Earned the required work credits: Social Security disability benefits are funded through taxes that are deducted from your paycheck. You must have earned the required number of work credits to qualify for long-term disability, and you must have earned them within specified time periods.

How Do Social Security Disability Credits Work?

What Social Security disability work credits are and how they are earned is a common source of confusion and concern among people applying for long-term disability benefits. The SSA provides pamphlets explaining qualification guidelines. The following highlights some of the most important information you need to know:

• Work credits are based on your income: As of 2023, you earn one work credit for every $1,640 you earn.
• You can earn up to four work credits per year: Work credits are awarded quarterly, based on your income. They are also transferable, meaning you continue earning them even if you switch jobs.
• The number of work credits required for long-term disability benefits varies: In general, if you are 31 or older, you must have earned at least 20 work credits to be eligible for benefits.
• Work credits must have been earned within certain time frames: Generally, you must have earned the majority of work credits in the immediate ten years prior to becoming disabled.

Social Security disability eligibility guidelines are strict when it comes to work credits, but it is important to be aware that there are exceptions to every rule. If you have been denied benefits, consult with our Florida disability lawyer to discuss your rights in filing an appeal.

Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer Today

Social Security disability benefits can help you provide for yourself and your family if you are unable to work. You pay into this system and have the right to get the maximum amount you are owed. If your claim is denied due to work credits or other reasons, contact Farrell Disability Law. Request a consultation with our Florida Social Security lawyer in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10072.pdf

Do I Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) provides a safety net for people who suffer from illnesses, injuries, or chronic medical conditions that prevent them from working for a year or longer. In order to be eligible for these benefits, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s SSDI guidelines:

• You must have a qualifying medical condition: The SSA maintains a listing of impairments that may make you eligible for benefits. You will need to have your doctor confirm your condition and your status as being disabled.
• You must have earned the required work credits: You pay into Social Security via taxes deducted from your paycheck. In order to qualify for benefits, you must have earned a minimum of 40 credits.
• You must have worked recently: Half of the 40 required work credits for SSDI must have been earned in the past ten years.

Four Ways To File A Denied SSDI Appeal

Unfortunately, even if you meet all qualification guidelines, you may still have problems obtaining benefits. According to a 2022 Kiplinger report, nearly 70 percent of applications end up being denied.

The good news is that, provided you take the appropriate steps, you may still be able to obtain the benefits you are entitled to and deserve. There are four ways in which to appeal the SSA’s decision:

1. Request reconsideration: This is generally the first step when dealing with denied SSDI benefits. It involves providing additional supporting documents and asking the SSA to reconsider its decision.
2. Request a hearing with a judge: If the SSA continues to deny your benefits, you may request a hearing before an administrative judge.
3. Request a review of the hearing decision: If the administrative judge denies your claim, you may request to have their decision reviewed by the SSA’s Appeals Council.
4. File a federal lawsuit: If your claim continues to be denied and you are otherwise entitled to benefits, you may be able to file a lawsuit through the federal court system.

Discuss Your Options With Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you have been denied Social Security disability benefits, reach out to Farrell Disability Law. Our experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer provides the caring support, trusted legal guidance, and professional representation you need throughout the appeals process. To discuss your options, call or contact us online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html#:~:text=Generally%2C%20you%20need%2040%20credits,to%20How%20You%20Earn%20Credits.

kiplinger.com/personal-finance/604934/3-main-reasons-why-the-government-denies-social-security-disability#:~:text=About%2067%25%20of%20initial%20applications,Social%20Security%20Administration%20(SSA)

44,000 People File Social Security Disability Claims Due To Long Covid

Since the early days of the pandemic, there have been disturbing reports of people who contracted Covid yet never seemed to fully recover. Long Covid is attributed to dozens of disturbing symptoms that can impact patients for long months-and possibly years-after.

According to a November 2022 CNBC News report, it is estimated that more than 23 million people suffer from long Covid, with more than four million out of work as a result. Symptoms that can impact overall health and ability to perform tasks both at home and on the job include:

• Debilitating fatigue;
• Chronic and severe headaches;
• Breathing disorders;
• Heart conditions;
• Problems in maintaining balance and lack of coordination;
• Muscles aches, pains, and general weakness;
• Disruptions to the nervous system.

Of the millions of people who are unable to work due to the above or other symptoms, CNBC reports that roughly 44,000 have filed for Social Security disability benefits. While you may be entitled to monthly payments if your condition is expected to prevent you from working for a year or longer, getting these claims approved is often a challenge.

Social Security Disability Benefits For Long Covid

People with long Covid are entitled to legal protection under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination based on health conditions or physical limitations. However, you can still expect challenges when it comes to obtaining Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). The majority of all SSDI claims end up being denied on the first application and it is a particularly common problem for people with long Covid.

Documenting your condition and proving you are disabled are among the biggest challenges. To protect your rights to benefits, our Florida Social Security disability lawyer recommends taking the following steps:

• Obtain copies of all medical records pertaining to your condition;
• Obtain a statement from your doctor, confirming you are disabled due to long Covid;
• Provide proof of lost income and statements from your employer, documenting the impacts your symptoms have had on your job;
• Keep a journal detailing how long Covid impacts your personal life and your ability to perform household tasks or engage in prior hobbies and activities.

Reach Out To Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

If long Covid is preventing you from working, reach out to Farrell Disability Law to discuss your rights regarding disability benefits. Call or contact our Florida long-term disability lawyer online today.

Sources:

cnbc.com/2022/11/30/long-covid-patients-share-their-struggle-with-disability-coverage.html

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

Are You Eligible For Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly payments that help offset lost income if a physical or mental health condition prevents you from working. These benefits can provide a lifeline for you and your family, but filing an application and getting it approved often proves challenging. Unfortunately, many claims are denied due to failure to meet program eligibility guidelines.

Rather than taking any chances, be aware of key factors influencing your rights to SSDI. Your answers to the following questions play a major role in determining whether you are entitled to benefits:

1. Are you currently working and making under $1350 per month (gross income)?

In order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have a qualifying health condition that prevents you from engaging in what the SSA calls ‘substantial gainful activity’. In 2022, this means that you make a total of less than $1,350 in gross income per month, or up to  $2,260 if you are considered legally blind. If you make over this amount, you are not qualified for SSDI benefits.

2. Have you earned enough work credits and been employed for five of the past ten years?

SSDI is funded through your employee taxes. In order to qualify, you must have accumulated at least forty work credits. These are awarded based on your income and each year that you work, with a maximum of four per year. In addition to having enough credits, you must also have worked full-time for at least five of the past ten years.

3. Do you suffer from a physical or mental health condition that impacts your ability to work?

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, which are conditions that qualify for Social Security disability benefits. In addition to having a qualifying condition, it must be severe enough to prevent you from performing tasks on your job or other types of work for at least 12 months or more.

4. Have you been diagnosed as disabled by your doctor?

Not having medical documentation of your condition is one of the most common reasons for the denial of claims. It is important to visit your doctor regularly and to keep detailed records regarding your medical care, your symptoms, and the impacts they have on your life. You will also need a statement from your medical provider diagnosing you as disabled. 

Request A Consultation With Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you answered yes to the above questions, reach out to Farrell Disability Law. We provide trusted legal guidance in filing SSDI claims and in appealing denials. To request a consultation in our Jacksonville or Orlando office, call or contact us online today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/credits.html

ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm