Fort Lauderdale Disability Lawyer

If you are disabled and cannot work for an extended period of time, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) insurance benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you find yourself unable to work and in need of Social Security benefits, having a Fort Lauderdale disability lawyer on your side can help.

When you apply for SSDI or SSI, the Social Security Administration (SSA) takes many factors into consideration. Your age, work history and details of your disability are reviewed. It is essential for you to provide thorough medical records that have been compiled by a licensed professional. The complex nature of applying for benefits can be frustrating.

At Chermol & Fishman, LLC, we’ve seen how confusing and frustrating the SSDI and SSI process can be for individuals. Our experienced Social Security lawyers have helped countless individuals get the benefits they need. Contact us today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can assist you.

How Can A Fort Lauderdale Disability Attorney Help You?

Finding yourself disabled and unable to provide for yourself and your family can be stressful. Trying to navigate the disability application process alone can be frustrating. A Social Security disability lawyer in Fort Lauderdale can assist you with every aspect of your benefits claim.

The legal team at Chermol & Fishman can:

Evaluate your situation and determine your eligibility for benefits.
Gather evidence and information to support your claim.
Complete and file your SSDI or SSI application.
In the event of denial, handle the appeals process.

Working with a dedicated and experienced disability attorney can have a tremendous difference on the success of your benefits application. They can efficiently and effectively handle your claim, reducing the chances of unnecessary delays or denials.

SSDI & SSI Benefits in Fort Lauderdale

Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income provide benefits to individuals suffering from a disabling condition who are unable to support themselves financially. Both programs are managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Some may use the terms SSD and SSI benefits interchangeably, but there are major differences between these types of benefits. Understanding these differences can help you determine which type of benefits you may be eligible to receive.

Social Security Disability benefits are available for individuals who have worked in the past. To receive disability benefits, that person must have accrued a certain number of work credits based on their age. Their medical provider must also verify that they are likely to be disabled for a minimum of 12 months in order.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are available for low-income applicants. Work history is not a requirement, but individuals must be either 65 or older, be blind or disabled, and have limited financial resources. The amount of financial assistance a person receives is based on the current federal rate minus any countable income.

Eligibility Criteria for Social Security Disability in Fort Lauderdale

It is essential to understand the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits before you start the application process. An experienced Fort Lauderdale SSD attorney can help you understand the criteria and your eligibility.

You must have a work history and have paid into Social Security. The amount of work credits you need to receive benefits is based on your age. This determines whether you have contributed enough to the social security disability insurance program to be eligible to receive benefits.
You must suffer from a qualifying disability for a minimum of 12 months.
Your disability must be a qualifying condition according to the SSA’s guidelines.
Your disability must severely interfere with your ability to perform job tasks related to any position for which you are qualified.
You must not make more than the SSA’s monthly income limit. This amount is regularly adjusted so it is important to verify this information with your attorney.

A thorough review of your eligibility with your disability lawyer is a critical first step to receiving the benefits you are owed. This review can shed light on any missing information and what you will need to show the SSA to prove your eligibility.

What Disabilities Does A Fort Lauderdale Disability Lawyer Handle?

Our disability attorneys handle a wide range of disabilities. Our Fort Lauderdale lawyers have successfully helped residents suffering from various conditions receive SSDI or SSI benefits. Some examples of disabling conditions include:

If you believe you are entitled to receive Social Security benefits, or are uncertain whether you have an eligible condition, contact our lawyers for a case analysis. We can help you better understand the SSA’s guidelines, the benefits you can receive, and to get started on the application process.

How To Apply For Disability In Fort Lauderdale?

Once you’ve determined your eligibility for either SSDI or SSI, you will need to file a claim with the SSA. You can file your application either:

Online: You can apply online at ssa.gov
Mail: You can mail your completed application to the Fort Lauderdale SSA office at 3201 W Commercial Blvd Ste 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Telephone: By calling the SSA toll free number 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)

In-Person: You can apply in person at the Fort Lauderdale SSA office.

You and your attorney will need to gather essential information including proof of your identity, evidence of your disability, evidence of your work history, and any other supporting documentation.

Filling out your application completely and accurately is vital to avoiding delays or denials. Getting legal assistance can be especially beneficial and can help to avoid common errors.

What Happens if my Social Security Disability Claim is Denied in Fort Lauderdale?

If your claim is denied in Fort Lauderdale, the first step is to determine the reason for the denial. Depending on the SSA’s reason for denying the application, you may be able to either reapply for benefits or appeal the decision.

There are several levels of appeal after a disability benefits denial:

First, you can make a request for reconsideration with the SSA. During a reconsideration, the SSA will review your claim and the reason for denial.
Second, if the SSA continues to deny your claim, you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ). During ALJ Hearings, the ALJ listens to the SSA’s and your reasoning.
Third, if the ALJ affirms the denial of benefits, you can request a review from the SSA’s Appeals Council.
Finally, if your claim is still denied, you can appeal the case to the federal district court.

Working with a dedicated disability attorney in Fort Lauderdale can be critical throughout the process, from initial application to federal court appeals. The team at Chermol & Fishman can provide you with support every step of the way.

Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Disability Lawyers for Legal Help

Many people who apply for disability benefits feel alone during the process. The complexity of applying for SSD or SSI benefits is frustrating, and you may feel that no one understands the struggles that you are experiencing.

The legal team at Chermol & Fishman, LLC ensures that you are not alone during these challenging times. Consulting with a Fort Lauderdale Disability attorney can help take the stress out of the lengthy Social Security application process. Contact us today at 305-413-5105 for a free case evaluation and to get started.