SSDI Benefits in Florida

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that helps people who can't work because of a serious medical condition. It's like insurance. Workers earn it by paying Social Security taxes on their income. If they become disabled, SSDI provides monthly payments to help them and their families.

How Does the SSDI Program Work?

Here's how the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program works: You earn SSDI coverage through your past work, much like insurance. As you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn "work credits." You need a certain number of these credits to qualify for SSDI, and the amount required varies depending on your age.

Once you've met the work credit requirement, your medical condition needs to meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. This means you have a severe condition that prevents you from doing any gainful activity and it is expected to last at least a year or result in death.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI in Florida?

To be eligible for SSDI in Florida, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. This gives you "work credits."

Your medical condition must also meet Social Security's definition of disability. Keep in mind that short-term or mild disabilities don't qualify for SSDI benefits.

Eligibility for SSDI depends on two factors:

1. You must have accrued sufficient work credits.
2. Your medical condition must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) criteria for disability.

To qualify for SSDI in Florida, strong medical evidence is key. Proof of your disability, including doctor's reports, diagnoses, and test results directly influences whether the Social Security Administration considers your condition severe enough to merit benefits.

How to Apply for SSDI in Florida

Applying for SSDI in Florida is a straightforward process. You can apply online at the Social Security Administration website, by phone, or at a local Social Security office.

You'll need personal details like your name and Social Security number. You must also provide thorough medical records showing your disability, detailed work history, income information, and depending on your case, possibly information on your spouse, children, or military service, if applicable.

Apply for SSDI Benefits Online: https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib

Apply By Phone: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Appeal Process

If your SSDI application is denied, you have a right to appeal. In Florida, the appeal process involves four steps: reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, a review by the Appeals Council, and lastly, a federal court review.

You have 60 days after receiving the denial notice to request an appeal.

Consider hiring a disability lawyer if you're appealing a denial. While it's not required to have a lawyer, it can definitely make things easier. An experienced attorney can help you put together a strong claim, represent you in hearings, and increase your chances of getting benefits.

More Florida Benefits: Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another program that helps people who are disabled, blind, or elderly and have little or no income. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not based on your work history. Instead, it's based on your financial need.

In Florida, the state adds extra money to the federal SSI payment. This means you can get a little more help if you're really in need. You can apply for SSI the same way you apply for SSDI &mdash online, by phone, or at a local SSA office.

If you're approved for SSI, you'll get monthly payments to help you with basic needs like food, clothing, and housing. You are also automatically approved for other benefits like Medicaid and food stamps.

Florida - Social Security Disability Office Locations