Ocala, FL Social Security Disability
In the United States of America, there is a clear acknowledgement and respect for people who live with disabilities. Not only are there programs to assist disabled people with everyday activities, but there are federal funding programs to assist disabled people with basic bills and everyday expenses. This federal program is known as Social Security.
There are two types of Social Security. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI) are benefits that are typically provided to disabled people (and certain members of the family). In order to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, individuals must have worked long enough and paid enough taxes.
Meanwhile, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides people with financial payments for basic support.
Disability lawyers at McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli in Ocala, FL, can help you understand your social security rights, which federal program you qualify for, and assist you with the Social Security application process.
Applying for Social Security Benefits
In order to receive Social Security benefits, the first thing that you must do is apply for social security and/or apply for social security disability. In the state of Florida, the process is simple.
The first thing that you should do is submit an online application for the social security program that you desire. The application will ask basic questions pertaining to identity, financial information, and your disability. While the application is easily accessible, many people prefer to make an appointment with the nearest social security office in their area. If you decide to do this, be sure that you bring important documents. For example, you may wish to bring your driver’s license, birth certificate, voter’s registration card, W-2 forms, an Adult Disability Report that documents your injuries and illnesses, and proof of medical attention (i.e. hospital bills, treatment plans, prescriptions, etc.). You may also wish to bring your banking information in order to set up direct deposit for your social security benefits.
The 5 Points of Social Security Consideration
There are 5 factors that will be considered when applying for social security disability benefits.
- The individual’s earnings
- The severity of the individual’s mental and/or physical condition
- The level of the medical condition
- The individual’s ability to perform previous work
- An individual’s burden of proof (i.e. the individual’s ability to provide documentation and proof)
What if My Application Is Denied?
Unfortunately, there are times that applications for social security benefits are denied. The most common reasons for denial include the following:
- High levels of income
- Evidence of drug and/or alcohol dependence
- Past or current crime records
- Fraudulent information
- Failure to comply with social security disability rules
- Failure to comply with medical instructions
If your application for social security disability benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal. A social security attorney can help you through this tedious process.
The Appeals Process
If your application for social security disability is denied, you have the right to appeal through a 4-level process.
- Request reconsideration
- Request an administrative judge hearing
- File a petition with a federal court (Appeals Council)
- File a lawsuit
The appeal process can often be tedious. In fact, the more levels that you go through, the more difficult it may be to prove your claim. Therefore, the expertise of experienced social security lawyers is vital. With the help of an attorney, you will understand the technical terms and conditions that you will have to follow during the appeals process, while dealing with courts and many other legal figures. Furthermore, a social security attorney can help you file paperwork properly and compile compelling evidence to support your claim. This way, you can be see that your appeal will be successful.
Social Security Lawyers in Ocala, FL
At McGraw, Rauba & Mutarelli, our experienced social security attorneys understand how necessary and beneficial social security benefits are to your family. For assistance with the overall process, you should rely on our firm to gain the benefits that you rightfully deserve to live a life of dignity and care.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation.