Information for Florida Disability Applicants on How the SSA Defines Disability

You may have a lot of questions if you have been diagnosed with a severe medical condition that prevents you from continuing to work. The process of applying for Social Security disability benefits can be challenging, especially since it can take a long time before receiving your benefits and in most cases, initial disability claims are denied and must be appealed.

On top of this, you may have concerns about how you will financially take care of your family while you are disabled. A Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer understands your concerns and will work with you to file your claim or help you through a Social Security disability appeal if your claim has been denied.

Disability as Defined by the Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability in adults as a mental or physical impairment (or a combination of both), that prevents the individual from working. In addition, the impairment must have lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or it is expected to result in death.

The SSA will not pay for individuals who are partially disabled or expect to be disabled for a short period of time. It is assumed that other available resources can provide financial support under these circumstances. This may include short-term disability insurance, Workers' Compensation, financial investments or savings.

The SSA defines disability in children as a mental or physical impairment (or a combination of both), that is expected to last or has lasted for 12 months or is expected to result in death. Additionally, the impairment must be the cause of severe functional limitations.

How a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help

While the definitions provide a basic explanation of how a disability is defined by the SSA, it doesn't necessarily mean that your case will be easy. Even legitimate disability claims are denied, which is why you may need the help of an experienced Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer.

A Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer will assist you with the complicated paperwork involved in filing a disability claim or in making a Social Security disability appeal on a claim that has been previously denied.

No matter where in the process you may be, a Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer can help you with your disability claim. You will stand a better chance at having your initial claim approved or if you have been denied, and a better chance at having a positive Social Security disability appeal with the assistance of an experienced attorney.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Lawyer

The Social Security attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.