Tallahassee Social Security Disability FAQs:

Who is eligible for disability benefits from Social Security?

Under Social Security rules, you’re only considered disabled (and eligible for benefits) if a medical condition or injury is expected to keep you from working for at least 12 months. The disability can be a physical condition, a mental condition, or a combination of both.

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Are mental illnesses eligible for disability benefits?

Yes. Mental illness is a frequently used basis for getting Social Security Disability benefits.

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What is the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) is a program for people who suffer with a disability and can no longer work. You may qualify for this program if you have worked a long time and paid sufficient FICA taxes. But, you may still be denied these benefits by the government.

If you haven’t paid enough money into the Social Security system to qualify for benefits, then you may still be able to receive Supplemental Security Income. The government will look at your income status and review what resources are available to you. This is used in determining your qualification.

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How can I find out if my medical condition qualifies for disability benefits?

While the Social Security Administration maintains a list of qualifying conditions, almost any condition that keeps you from working will qualify for disability benefits under the Social Security rules. Contact us today. We'll arrange a FREE evaluation of your claim to find out if you qualify for benefits.

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If I lose my case after my hearing, can a lawyer still help me?

Yes. A lawyer can help you file a civil action in the United States District Court or appeal your claim to the United States Court of Appeals.

At Solomon, Sullivan and Romo, we’re with you at each stage of your claim. Should you lose your case during your hearing, we can help appeal in Federal Court by submitting written legal arguments and attending oral arguments if necessary.

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What is the difference between a lawyer and a non-attorney advocate?

Non-attorney disability advocates are trained in the Social Security process, but have not received a law degree. They can help you file your initial claim, but if your claim is denied (and most are) you will want legal counsel to proceed to the next step. If your appeal goes all the way to Federal Court, you will definitely need an attorney.

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>What questions should I ask someone before hiring them to help me with my disability case?

• Ask if the attorney or firm is local to the Georgia and Florida area.
• Ask if your case will be handled by an attorney.
• Ask if the attorney will meet with you before the day of your hearing.
• If you’re unable to visit an attorney’s office in person, ask if the attorney is available for phone meetings.

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How can I improve my chances of winning my Social Security Disability claim?

• Be completely honest with Social Security in their requests for information, both financial and medical.
• Go to your doctors and treatment providers for two reasons. The first reason is for your health. The second reason is because Social Security bases its decisions on the medical evidence in your file. If you are not going for treatment, Social Security can assume that your condition is not severe enough to require treatment.
• Do not give up. It is very common for Social Security to deny claims; it is easy to become discouraged and believe it is useless to pursue your benefits. Your greatest chance to win your claim is at the hearing level, when a judge will personally meet with you and hear your complaints and problem.
• It is also important to hire an experienced attorney to represent you who understands Social Security’s rules and requirements. It is also important to do this at the earliest stage possible in your claim for Social Security.

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What is the biggest mistake people make when trying to win disability benefits?

Failing to appeal.

More than half of all claimants who are initially denied benefits do not appeal their case. Another critical mistake is the failure to immediately get medical care. Medical records are your best defense and are your evidence in disability cases so it is essential that you see a doctor and continue to do so on a regular basis in order to chronicle the history of your disability.

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I was denied. Should I appeal? What happens if Social Security denies my claim for disability benefits?

Now you file a written request for reconsideration within 60 days of the denial notice. There are four levels of review: Reconsideration, Hearing, Appeals Council, and Federal Court.

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How long do I have to wait after becoming disabled before I can file for Social Security Disability benefits?

You can file for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. Anyone who suffers a serious illness or injury and is expected to be out of work for a year or more should not delay in filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits.

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Does my age matter when trying to receive disability benefits?

Yes. The Social Security Administration looks at age as one of the factors when determining disability. The administration evaluates age as follows:

• 18-49 is a younger worker
• 50-54 is closely approaching advanced age
• 55-59 is advanced age
• 60-64 is closely approaching retirement age.
• The Social Security Administration's rules take into consideration that as people get older, they become less adaptable, less able to switch to different jobs to cope with health problems.

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How does Social Security decide if I can work?

By reviewing your documentation. That’s what the appeals hearing is about. The Social Security Administration will examine your medical records, your employer records and any personal or expert testimony in deciding whether you’re unable to work for a year or more.

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Will Solomon, Sullivan and Romo represent me at a hearing if one is necessary?

Absolutely. If it is necessary for you to attend a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, one of our attorneys will personally represent you.

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I’m interested in talking with Solomon, Sullivan and Romo. What should I do next?

Contact our office today. We’ll arrange a consultation to determine whether you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. If you do, we’ll help you start the proceedings for the best chance to win.

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