If you suffer from a severe medical condition that prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The application process begins by filing a claim with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Who Qualifies for SSDI and SSI?
To be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain length of time. SSI is a need-based program for those with limited income and assets. For both programs, your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities for at least 12 continuous months.
How to Apply for SSDI or SSI in Jacksonville
There are a few different ways to start your disability claim in the Jacksonville area:
- Apply Online
You can file applications for SSDI or SSI online at www.ssa.gov.
Visit the Jacksonville Social Security Office
You can apply in person at the local SSA office located at:
7825 Baymeadows Way Suite 194B
Jacksonville, FL 32256
- Call the SSA
To begin a claim over the phone, call 1-800-772-1213
What is Needed to Apply Regardless of how you choose to file, be prepared to provide information about your work history, medical records, treatments, test results, and daily limitations caused by your condition. The more supporting documentation you can include upfront, the smoother the process.
Call an experienced Social Security disability attorney to assist you with your initial application. The best way to get your applications started and ensure smooth processing is to call an experienced Social Security Disability attorney. An attorney can help ensure that the application has all the pertinent information, is properly filed and respond to requests from SSA.
Wait Times for Initial SSDI or SSI Claims in Jacksonville
Once you submit your application, there is typically a 3-6 month waiting period before you receive an initial determination on your disability claim from the SSA. Unfortunately, these wait times are often much longer – usually at least a year in the Jacksonville area due to a heavy claims volume.
Jacksonville SSDI and SSI Approval Rates
Over 70% of initial disability applications, both SSDI and SSI, are denied by the SSA in the Jacksonville metro region each year. The most common reason claims are rejected is insufficient medical evidence to establish a qualifying disability under SSA rules.
The Role of a Disability Attorney
Having an experienced Social Security disability lawyer assist you right from the start of preparing your application gives you a huge advantage. An attorney knows exactly what medical evidence is required and how to present your case in a compelling way that highlights how your condition meets SSA impairment listings.
If your initial claim is denied, a disability lawyer can also represent you through the multi-level appeals process, up to and including arguing your case before an administrative law judge at a hearing. Statistics show that having skilled legal representation dramatically increases your chances of eventually being awarded SSDI or SSI benefits.
While you are not required to have an attorney handle your claim, the disability application and appeals process is legally complex. Most people find it extremely beneficial to have an expert advocate on their side, especially given the low initial approval rates.
If you live in the Jacksonville area and your medical condition severely impacts your ability to work, taking the first step of consulting with a Social Security disability law firm can protect your rights and put you in the best position to eventually receive the SSDI or SSI income you deserve. Contact Disability Advocates Group today for a free consultation.