Filing for Social Security Disability Benefits

Serving Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach and clients throughout Florida

Filing for SSDI is not too difficult, but getting approved most certainly is. The majority of applications processed by the SSA in Florida are denied at first glance. Whether it is because of missing documentation, ineligibility or a simple error, those delays mean longer wait times before you get the benefits you are entitled to.

If you think you qualify for social security disability benefits, then it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney. While most people wait to hire an attorney for their appeal, an attorney can increase the chances your claim is approved initially and speed up the process for appeal in the slim chance it is denied.

Filing Online

Applicants previously had to report in-person to a local Social Security Administration office to complete an application. However, today applicants can begin the process online. Claims can take approximately three to five months to process; therefore, starting the process as soon as possible is the best course of action.

Also, before you try to apply online, have the information necessary to speed up the process. Some information you will need include:

• Your age and social security number – you will need a social security card and driver’s license to prove these items.
• The names and contact information of any treating physicians, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers associated with your disability and medical condition.
• The names and dosage amounts of medications you are currently taking.
• Medical records – including physician, hospital, clinic and caseworker records.
• Laboratory test records and results.
• The summary of jobs you have worked in the past and a description of your duties and responsibilities.
• Any recent W-2’s you have or a federal tax return copy if you were self-employed.
• Proof of marriage – if your spouse is applying for benefits.

Because the online system is not always reliable, you may want to call your local SSA office to confirm receipt of your electronic application. It can take several hours, so calling the next day to make sure everything was transmitted is best.

The Social Security Disability Interview

After your application is received, you will be contacted to schedule an interview with an SSDI representative. This interview lasts approximately one hour and will go over details that help determine benefit eligibility. Some information that may be discussed includes:

• Medical history
• Work history
• Medical treatment you have received for your disability over the past year
• Non-medical information, such as marital status, any dependents, military service, and if you are currently receiving workers compensation benefits
• Going over the information provided on your application

It’s important to note that this interview is strictly fact-finding, and no decision is made during the interview.

Contact the SSDI Experts at Hardesty, Tyde, Green &Ashton, P. A. Now

Improve the chances of your application being accepted and engage the services of skilled SSDI lawyers who are here to help you get the benefits you deserve.

Contact the attorneys at Hardesty, Tyde, Green & Ashton, P. A. today for a free consultation regarding your SSDI case.