Social security is a federal program designed to support you in the event you become disabled through injury or illness. In fact, each time you are paid by your employer, you pay social security payroll taxes. Unfortunately, filing for social security disability benefits (SSD) and obtaining those benefits can be trickier than it seems.

In this article, our team of experienced Florida social security insurance attorneys discuss three things you need to know when filing a social security claim.

A Look at Some Statistics

A disability can occur unexpectedly. According to the Council for Disability Awareness: 

  • Nearly 51 million Americans are disabled.
  • Approximately three in ten American workers will become disabled at some point during employment.
  • On average, a disabled worker is unable to work for 2.5 years.
  • Approximately 350,000 annual foreclosures and bankruptcies are a result of unexpected illnesses.

How to File for SSD

There are several ways to file for social security disability. You can either call the Social Security Administration (SSA) or schedule a meeting with a SSA field representative to complete an application. Once the application is taken, you will be interviewed over the phone or in person.

You Can Do It Online

If you prefer to file your claim online, you can go to the SSA’s website (www.ssa.gov). There is a link that says, “Apply online for disability benefits.” Once you have done this, it is a good idea to contact a local field office to let them now you have filed a claim. You should eventually be contacted by a SSA claims representative.

The Tricky Part

You should be ready to appeal. According to the SSA, 75 percent of initial claims are denied. In addition, 80 percent of consequent appeals are also denied. That is why you should enlist the help of an experienced social security insurance attorney who understands the process.

Our Team Can Help

At Johnson & Gilbert, P.A., our team has helped hundreds of SSDI claimants successfully file for benefits. Let’s face it, the government doesn’t make it easy for you to get the benefits you have already been paying for. We understand and can help you collect and organize the information necessary to form your argument.

In addition, if you have been injured on the job, you should order your copy of our free book, 'It’s Not Rocket Science, It’s Worker’s Comp: A Simple Guide through Florida’s Not So Simple Workers’ Compensation System.

If you or someone you know has been injured or become seriously ill and cannot work, you should contact one of our experienced Florida social security insurance attorneys at Johnson & Gilbert, P.A. at (386) 673-4412 or (800) 556-8890. Our team wants to see you succeed and is ready to help.