What Conditions Are Considered a Disability for Social Security Benefits in Florida?

If you have a physical condition that prevents you from working in Florida, then you may be wondering whether that condition would qualify as a “disability” that would make you eligible for Social Security benefits. The SSDI program uses a strict definition of disability that incorporates not only your ability to perform work, but also how long you are projected to be disabled. Short-term and partial disability are not eligible for SSDI benefits.

At Family First Firm, we help our clients and their families in Orlando, FL prepare for a bright future and an enduring legacy. If you or a loved one have worked for many years and can no longer do so due to long-term injuries or chronic conditions, then you should explore your eligibility to qualify for benefits. Schedule a free consultation with a Social Security Disability attorney at our firm by calling us at (407) 574-8125 today.

Examples of Conditions that May Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits in FL

The following medical conditions have been known to often meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits in the past:

• • Limb Amputation
  • Neck or Back Injuries
  • Nervous System Damage
  • Cancer
  • Heart Disease
  • Lung Disease
  • Kidney or Liver Disease
  • Immune System Disorders
  • Neurological Issues
  • Psychological Disorders
  • Blind, Deaf, or Mute Conditions

To qualify under Social Security rules, you must not be able to do work and engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to your medical condition, you must not be able to do the work you previously did or adjust to other work because of that condition, and the condition has either lasted more than a year, is expected to last for at least one year, or is expected to lead to your death.

It is important to understand that additional factors will come into play when determining whether you are to be designated as disabled by the Social Security Administration. Your work history will need to be assessed to determine whether you would qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. You should speak with a Social Security Disability attorney at our firm if you suffer from any of the above conditions.

How Do Work Credits and Age Factor Into Eligibility for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Your previous work will be measured in credits, and the amount of work needed to earn a credit varies each year. You can earn up to four credits each year. For example, in 2022 one work credit is earned for each $1,510 earned, so $6,040 would earn the four credits for that year.

Both how much you have worked and how recently you have worked will impact your eligibility for SSDI benefits. Applicants must meet a recent work test and a duration work test.

In the majority of cases, 40 work credits are needed to qualify for disability benefits, with 20 of those credits earned in the past 10 years (up to the beginning of your disability). However, younger workers may require fewer credits to qualify. Discuss your work history in relation to your disability condition with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney at our firm by scheduling a free assessment.

How To Qualify Your Condition for Social Security Disability Benefits

In order to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, your medical condition must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability, and you must have worked in jobs that are covered by Social Security. Your application would include a review of your medical history in addition to a review of your work history.

In the majority of cases, qualifying SSDI benefit recipients are unable to work for at least a year due to their disability, and those benefits continue until these individuals are able to work regularly. Additional benefits and health care coverage can also incentivize and assist during a recipient’s transition when returning to work.

Understanding SSI Versus SSDI in Florida

While Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides support to disabled individuals who have a history of work that qualifies them for the program, An SSDI applicant’s work credits accumulate to affect SSDI benefit eligibility. In contrast, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program providing minimum basic financial assistance to both older adults and disabled individuals of any age when their income and resources are very limited.

State programs are often used in addition to SSI benefits to supplement aid to SSI recipients. It is possible to qualify for both SSI and SSDI benefits under some circumstances.

How An Experienced Florida Social Security Disability Attorney at Family First Firm in Orlando, FL Can Help You

If you should qualify for SSDI benefits, then our experienced Social Security Disability attorney team is here to help you apply. Denials are very common, and we can help you to appeal a decision if you should be eligible.

Contact Family First Firm today to schedule a consultation by calling (407) 574-8125 or filling out our online form. We can explore your eligibility, coordinate your application, and manage your appeal, if necessary. Always by your side