Florida SSD Claim Lawyer
Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits?
The first question most people have about Social Security disability benefits is whether they qualify. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a multi-step process for determining who is eligible for benefits under a number of programs.
I am Don Anderson, a Clearwater Social Security disability attorney with more than 35 years of legal experience. I provide each of my clients with personal attention and will take the time to answer your questions about disability benefits. Contact me today for a free consultation.
Understanding the Factors Affecting Your Eligibility
The laws and regulations governing Social Security benefits are very complex. The following are some of the basic factors that go into determining whether you qualify for benefits and, if so, which specific benefits and accompanying levels of payment you are eligible to receive:
- Your Social Security record: In order to qualify for basic Social Security disability (SSD) benefits, you need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a number of years that is based on your age at the time you became disabled. If you do not qualify for SSD, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income, child benefits or survivor benefits.
- Your medical condition: If you have a disabling condition that is expected to last more than 12 months or expected to be terminal and that fits into the SSA listings of impairments, you can qualify for benefits solely on the basis of your disability.
- Your age, work history and skills: If you have a less severe disabling condition, the SSD will look at whether you are capable of working on the basis of your medical condition in combination with your age, employment history and transferable skills. Most of the time, this option is only realistic if you are over age 50 and meet other criteria.
Many medical conditions get worse over time. If you do not qualify for disability benefits now, you may end up qualifying in the future. To discuss your specific situation and whether you are likely to be approved for benefits, contact my office to schedule an appointment.
