Social Security Disability Benefits In Florida: What To Do If You Get A Denial Letter
Social Security disability benefits in Florida provide a safety net, helping offset lost income for people who suffer physical or mental health conditions that prevent them from working. However, even if you are otherwise entitled to these benefits, denials are unfortunately common.
Receiving a long-term disability denial letter can feel like a devastating setback, especially when you are depending on benefits for your primary support. Fortunately, this is not the end of the road. Our Orlando Social Security disability lawyer shares what to do if you get a denial letter.
Social Security Disability Denials Common In Florida
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides long-term disability benefits for Florida residents who have accumulated the required 40 work credits and have a qualifying condition that prevents them from working for a year or longer. However, according to SSA data, more than two-thirds of all initial disability applications are denied.
Rather than getting discouraged or giving up on getting your Social Security disability benefits, be aware of why denials happen and your rights in filing an appeal. Common reasons include:
- Insufficient medical evidence;
- Errors or incomplete information in the application;
- Mistakes on the part of the Social Security Administration;
- Failing to meet qualification guidelines.
When the SSA denies disability benefits, they must provide you with a letter detailing the exact causes, as well as your rights in filing an appeal. You have up to 60 after the date listed on your denial letter to appeal the SSA’s decision and request a reconsideration.
What To Do If Your Social Security Disability Benefits Get Denied
If you file a Florida Social Security disability claim and receive a denial letter, do not panic. While you likely are counting on these benefits to pay your bills and basic living expenses, claims are routinely denied on the first try, only to be approved in an appeal. To protect your rights in this situation and get the total amount you are entitled to, follow these steps:
- Thoroughly review the denial letter and the specific reasons for the denial;
- Make note of the date and the deadline for filing an appeal;
- Gather additional evidence, including statements from your doctor and test results;
- Keep a disability journal detailing how your condition impacts other areas of your life;
- Avoid posting about your claim or your disability on social media until your appeal is resolved;
- Contact Farrell Law Firm for professional legal representation throughout the appeals process.
For Help In Appealing Denied Benefits, Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security disability benefits protect your financial security if you cannot work. While denials are common, it is still devastating. Fortunately, you have the right to file an appeal, but this is often a confusing and time-consuming process.
Farrell Law Firm provides professional legal help and is dedicated to getting clients the maximum benefits they deserve. To protect your rights in appealing denied benefits, contact our Florida Social Security disability lawyer. Request a consultation today in our Orlando or Jacksonville office.
Sources:
ssa.gov/disability
ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/di_asr/2020/sect04.html
ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10058.pdf
