Fort Myers
Located in Southwestern Florida, Fort Myers is the commercial center of Lee County. With an estimated population of nearly 90,000 people, Fort Myers is one of the larger metropolitan areas in Southwest Florida. A popular tourist destination, the winter estates of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison are significant attractions. Fort Myers hugs the Caloosahatchee River’s shores, making Fort Myers a popular destination for outdoor recreationists. Fort Myers is also home to Florida Gulf Coast University.
Applying for SSDI or SSI Benefits in Fort Myers
Fort Myers residents can submit their applications for Social Security benefits without the assistance of a lawyer. However, if you are eligible for benefits, your chances of obtaining them increase when you consult with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. At Disability Advocates Group, we have a proven track record of obtaining SSDI and SSI benefits on behalf of our well-deserving clients. When you submit your application, you will need to include a detailed work history along with a complete record of your medical condition. The more information you can provide about how your medical condition affects you, the better.
When we sit down and meet with you, we will discuss your case and ensure that you meet all the qualifications for applying for SSDI and SSI benefits. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and cannot be currently receiving their own Social Security benefits. Applicants must show that they have a qualifying medical condition that prevents them from pursuing gainful employment.
The Social Security Administration rejects many first-time applications. They frequently reject applications due to inaccuracies or an applicant’s failure to include all of the necessary information and paperwork. We focus our legal practice entirely on helping Florida residents with disabilities obtain the benefits they need, and we can help you do the same.
After we learn about your unique situation, we will help you complete your application, ensuring that it is comprehensive, accurate, and free from any mistakes that could result in a denial of your claim. Many of our clients feel overwhelmed while applying for social security benefits, but when they work with us, they rest easier knowing that we are handling every aspect of their case. We will help you gather all of the relevant information you need to give your claim the best chance of success.
The Difference Between SSDI and SSI Benefits
The Social Security Administration offers two different benefits programs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These programs provide monthly cash benefits to Fort Myers residents who are unable to work due to a disability, but the eligibility requirements are different. SSI benefits are only available for applicants with a minimal income and few assets. There is no work credit requirement for applying for SSI benefits. Even if you haven’t worked before, you may still be eligible. You will need to show that your medical condition or disability makes it impossible for you to be gainfully employed.
SSDI benefits, on the other hand, are available for applicants who have earned enough work credits. Employees earn work credits when they pay into the social security system through their paycheck contributions. Applicants need to show that they have a disability that prevents them from gainful employment and enough work credits through their work history or through a qualifying family member’s employment record. If you aren’t sure whether you are eligible for benefits, Disability Advocates Group can help you understand whether you’re eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits.
The Difference Between SSDI and SSI Benefits
The Social Security Administration offers two different benefits programs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These programs provide monthly cash benefits to Fort Myers residents who are unable to work due to a disability, but the eligibility requirements are different. SSI benefits are only available for applicants with a minimal income and few assets. There is no work credit requirement for applying for SSI benefits. Even if you haven’t worked before, you may still be eligible. You will need to show that your medical condition or disability makes it impossible for you to be gainfully employed.
SSDI benefits, on the other hand, are available for applicants who have earned enough work credits. Employees earn work credits when they pay into the social security system through their paycheck contributions. Applicants need to show that they have a disability that prevents them from gainful employment and enough work credits through their work history or through a qualifying family member’s employment record. If you aren’t sure whether you are eligible for benefits, Disability Advocates Group can help you understand whether you’re eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits.
Appealing the Denial of Your Social Security Benefit Application
If you received a letter stating that the Social Security Administration has denied your claim, you must appeal within 60 days. Our team can help you submit a notice of reconsideration. Should the Social Security Administration deny your claim again, you can appeal and request an administrative hearing. Administrative law judges preside over these hearings that are not as formal as typical court hearings. Many disability hearings are over the phone, not in person.
During the hearing, the administrative law judge will ask you questions about your medical condition and work history. There are typically vocational experts and medical experts present at these hearings as well. The administrative law judge and your attorney can ask questions of the experts during the hearing. The vocational expert will provide information related to your ability to work in your job industry.
Attending the disability hearing with a lawyer who is representing your interests will help you significantly. At Disability Advocates Group, we have attended hundreds of disability hearings. We know what to expect and what type of questions to ask to help our clients obtain the benefits they deserve. Sometimes our clients are nervous about attending a hearing, and we can help them understand the process so they feel more comfortable. It typically takes two to three months to receive the administrative law judge’s decision. Should the judge deny your claim, we will submit another appeal on your behalf.
Are You Living With a Disability in Fort Myers?
Many residents of Fort Myers have been diagnosed with a disability or medical condition and cannot work. If you’re unable to work due to a disability, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits. Receiving monthly benefits can help you provide for yourself and your family. The application process is complicated, however. Working with one of the experienced Social Security benefits lawyers at Disability Advocates Group will increase your chances of success. Contact the Disability Advocates Group today to learn how we can help you apply for benefits.
Contact a Fort Myers Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
Our experienced professionals have an in-depth understanding of federal and state regulations related to Social Security benefits. Applying for benefits is a complicated and tedious process, and if you don’t submit an accurate application, your claim will be denied. Our team will ensure that you submit a thorough and complete application. If necessary, we will represent you throughout the appeals process. Contact Disability Advocates Group today to schedule your initial consultation.
